Estrogen and progesterone are female sex hormones that are secreted by the ovaries and are mainly responsible for female sexual characteristics.
However, the primary purpose of these hormones is the sex function, which is used for reproduction. The level of these hormones varies at different stages of life, and with the aging, their production decreases.
Disturbance of their level may occur for several reasons such as pregnancy, PMS and many other diseases. That’s why they need to be compensated in other ways, primarily food.
In these situations, you need to increase your intake of foods that contain phytoestrogens. These are plant hormones that contain natural estrogen and progesterone, or female hormones. Some of the recommended foods containing these hormones are:
• Flax
– Seeds or Flax seed oil, besides it contains phytoestrogens it’s also full with antioxidants, which decrease the risk of breast and cervix cancer.
Flax seeds combined with yogurt, milk or food supplement, significantly reduces menopausal symptoms such as stomach aches, headaches or bloating.
• Soy and Soy products
– these foods contain a type of phytoestrogens called isoflavones, which have proved very useful for women in menopause, reducing the problems caused by hot flushes ( choppy heat).
• Leafy vegetables
– cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower are rich sources of phytoestrogens and dietary fiber.As a result, they help prevent heart disease.
• Stone fruits and seeds
– contain fatty acids that are essential for the regulation of hormones or proteins and carbohydrates which provide a balanced diet.
In walnuts, almonds and chickpea are contained omega 3 acids, so for optimal intake of omega 3 fatty acids you should nibble sunflower seeds and pumpkin. These acids prevent the body to absorb harmful forms of estrogen.
Proper and sufficient water intake helps regulate hormonal status.
Water provides absorption and eliminates excess hormones.
But you should be careful with such a diet, especially if you also consume foods rich in phytoestrogens and some dietary supplements.
There can be an increased concentration of isoflavones that for some women might be potentially carcinogenic. It is best to consult your med. about this way of nutrition.
