Seed Cycling: Natural Hormonal Balance Through Seeds

Seed cycling is a holistic approach that helps women regulate their hormones naturally. This method involves the intentional consumption of specific seeds during different phases of the menstrual cycle. The cycle is divided into two main phases: the follicular phase and the luteal phase.

Understanding the Cycle:

Follicular Phase (Day 1–14):

This phase starts on the first day of menstruation and ends with ovulation. Estrogen is the dominant hormone during this time.

• Recommended Seeds: Flaxseeds and Pumpkin Seeds

• Why? Flaxseeds contain lignans, which help balance estrogen levels, while pumpkin seeds provide zinc, which supports progesterone production in the next phase.

Luteal Phase (Day 15–28):

This phase begins after ovulation and ends with the onset of the next menstruation. Progesterone is the dominant hormone in this phase.

• Recommended Seeds: Sunflower Seeds and Sesame Seeds

• Why? Sunflower seeds are rich in selenium, an important antioxidant that supports liver function and helps regulate hormones. Sesame seeds contain lignans and essential fatty acids that promote progesterone production and support a balanced hormonal profile.

How Does Seed Cycling Work?

Seed cycling aims to support the body’s natural hormonal balance by consuming specific seeds during the appropriate phase of the cycle. These seeds provide nutrients that assist the body in producing and regulating estrogen and progesterone. This method is particularly beneficial for women experiencing hormonal imbalances, such as irregular periods, PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), hormonal acne, or other menstrual issues.

Tips for Implementation:

• Grind Fresh: To ensure maximum nutrient absorption, the seeds should be freshly ground. Crushing the seeds helps your body better absorb the nutrients they contain.

• Easy Integration: Seeds can be easily incorporated into your daily diet by sprinkling them over cereal, yogurt, salads, or smoothies.

Focus on the Luteal Phase:

During the luteal phase, which is the second half of the cycle, the focus is on supporting progesterone levels. Sunflower and sesame seeds play a crucial role in this phase. These seeds provide essential nutrients that help prepare the body for a potential pregnancy while supporting overall hormonal health.

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What to Eat in a Day

To fully benefit from seed cycling, here are three recipes perfect for the luteal phase:

Breakfast: Granola

This homemade granola combines oats with chopped nuts and a mix of seeds, particularly sunflower and sesame seeds. Sunflower seeds provide selenium, which supports hormone balance during the luteal phase. This granola is an easy way to incorporate the necessary seeds into your diet.

To the Granola

Lunch: Yogurt Dip with Carrots

This creamy yogurt dip is garnished with roasted sesame seeds, which are rich in lignans that support progesterone production. Paired with roasted carrots and chickpeas, this dish is nutrient-dense and ideal for this phase of the cycle.

To the Recipe

Dinner: Falafel on Tahini Sauce

Sesame seeds are the key ingredient in tahini, a paste used in this recipe. Combined with homemade falafel and a fruity apricot chutney, this meal is balanced with healthy fats and vital nutrients, perfectly supporting your body during the luteal phase.

To the Tahini Sauce

These recipes offer delicious and nutritious ways to complement seed cycling during the luteal phase, promoting natural hormonal balance.