PMS and Painful Periods are Not Normal

PMS, painful periods, mood swings, heavy bleeding, and bloating are not normal - please don't let anyone tell you otherwise!

These issues, and more, are caused in part by estrogen dominance - too much estrogen in your system in relation to other hormones, such as progesterone.

But estrogen is not a bad thing, we need estrogen because it is a group of hormones that play essential roles in the female reproductive system and other bodily functions, it’s that all our hormones need to be in balance for us to feel and function amazingly!

So, what symptoms can estrogen dominance cause?

Estrogen dominance can lead to various negative conditions, at various times of your cycle, such as:

• Irregular menstrual cycles - ideally your cycle should consistently be 28 to 32 days in length
• PMS - such as mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, water retention, memory problems and difficulty concentrating.
• Breast tenderness
• Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, hips and thighs.
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Fertility issues
• Endometriosis and fibroids
• Thyroid dysfunction

In addition, there is research suggesting a connection between long-term estrogen dominance (think bad periods starting in teens/early 20s and lasting to menopause) and an increased risk of certain cancers. The most notable examples include:

• Breast Cancer: Estrogen stimulates the growth of breast tissue, and continuous exposure to high levels of estrogen can potentially promote the growth of cancerous cells.
• Endometrial Cancer: The lining of the uterus is sensitive to estrogen. Estrogen dominance can lead to excessive growth of the lining, potentially increasing the risk of endometrial cancer.

Making certain dietary and lifestyle changes can help in managing estrogen dominance, and thereby reduce or eliminate the symptoms mentioned previously.

You don’t need pain killers, you don’t need to be on birth control, you don’t even need to be taking herbal remedies to address this issue. Nourish your body first. Generally, hormones being out of wack can be caused by a few different reasons - maybe your liver is sluggish, maybe your gut is struggling, maybe your adrenals can’t keep up with the stress in your life. Address your whole body first and then seek additional support, occasionally, as needed.

Here are some foundational suggestions to consider:

1. Increase fiber intake: Fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits, help the body eliminate excess estrogen through the digestive system. High-fiber diets can also support healthy gut bacteria, which play a role in hormone metabolism.
2. Support Gut Health: A healthy gut microbiome helps metabolize and eliminate hormones. Include fermented foods (like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) daily to promote gut health.
3. Choose cruciferous vegetables: Veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts contain compounds that aid in the metabolism of estrogen and promote its proper elimination from the body.
4. Healthy fats: Include sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish (e.g., salmon) in your diet. Healthy fats support hormone production and balance.
5. Limit processed foods and sugar: Processed foods often contain additives, preservatives, and unhealthy fats that can disrupt hormonal balance. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to insulin resistance, which may disrupt hormone regulation, as well as inflammation - increasing pain.
6. Limit Cosmetics, Scents and Cleaners: These are toxic and contribute to liver overload reducing its ability to breakdown estrogen allowing it to build up in your body.

Please remember that individual causes of symptoms as well as responses to dietary & lifestyle changes can vary, so it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional like me to provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs and goals.

Consulting a holistic nutritionist can be a valuable option if you're looking for guidance on dietary changes to address hormonal imbalances or overall health. I approach healing from a broader perspective, taking into account your unique needs and goals, not just going with the viral suggestion that is making the rounds at the moment. I consider the interconnectedness of various aspects of health, including diet, lifestyle, emotional well-being, and more. 💜