by Lauren Simon 

Think about some of the most important processes happening within our bodies each day: our metabolism, sleep cycle, mood and physical growth are just a few. What these parts of our well-being have in common is they are all influenced by our hormones. 

Hormones are essentially chemical messengers that guide how our body functions. They are housed by the endocrine system, which consists of the adrenal, pineal, pituitary, hypothalamus, and thyroid and parathyroid glands, as well as the gonads and pancreatic islets. 

There’s no doubt that hormones are a foundational part of our health as hormonal imbalance can take its toll in different ways. Too much or too little of a given hormone can lead to temporary or chronic health conditions. The Cleveland Clinic recognizes irregular menstruation in women, infertility and acne as some possible effects of hormonal imbalance. 

Although women experience frequent hormonal fluctuations, both genders can experience a hormonal imbalance. According to Jennifer Huizen of Medical News Today, symptoms such as mood swings, insomnia, unexplained weight gain or loss, or skin rashes can indicate an imbalance in women. Men may experience a decrease in muscle mass, erectile dysfunction, thinning or reduced hair growth and chest tenderness. 

What we eat has a major impact on how our hormones function; how our diet and hormones are intertwined is significant in the field of functional medicine. The Institute for Functional Medicine suggests that our diet may affect how our tissues and cells respond to hormone signaling in the body. 

There are several approaches to promoting hormone health through diet. Healthy fats are crucial to healthy hormone production; these can be found in coconut oil, avocados, nuts and seeds. Protein sources, such as beans, quinoa, lentils and wild-caught fish, power our cellular function and development. Incorporate vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, artichokes and beets for rich antioxidant boosts. Some spices can also be healthy additions for hormone health maintenance; cinnamon, turmeric and ginger are a few beneficial choices. 

Naturally, the importance of drinking water rings true for hormone health like other aspects of our well-being. Eight cups of water each day is the suggested intake amount, which can prevent the release of appetite-stimulating hormones that result from dehydration. Staying hydrated is also key in avoiding joint stiffness, weight gain and headaches. 

Sugar, such as added sugar in many sweetened beverages, can complicate hormone production and our gut health. Ariane Lang of Healthline recommends decreasing sugary drinks in our diets to prevent long-term hormonal effects of sugar consumption. 

Reducing the amount of caffeine in diets is equally important, especially when we find ourselves reaching for one-too-many cups of coffee. Opting for herbal teas is a way we can vary our caffeine intake with non-caffeinated beverages. With guidance from a doctor, supplements can bolster our nutrition and add some nutrients that our diet alone may not provide; a few of these include maca, magnesium, vitamin D and omega-3s. 

Although we can be proactive agents in our hormone health through diet, hormone testing may be necessary for more severe conditions. Consulting with a medical provider as you explore these options can benefit your wellness journey. 

Lauren Simon is a freelance writer with a passion for holistic health and a contributor to Natural Awakenings.