Spring Into Seed Cycling

The changing of the seasons sparks change in the weather and growth outside, but did you know the switch from winter to spring may also cause a shift in your hormones?

The Fluctuating Nature of Hormones

Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers and they affect many different biological processes happening at a microscopic level. 

Hormone levels change naturally at various life stages. There are also studies showing that some hormone levels ebb and flow with the seasons, having various levels of peaks and dips over the year – these changes are usually minor, but they may still be important for our health. 

Different hormones peak in winter, spring, or summer. Organs that produce sex hormones (like testosterone, progesterone, and estradiol) tend to reach their apex in late winter or early spring. 

The reason for seasonal hormone shifts cannot readily be explained. It could be an indication that humans have a physiological peak season for certain biological functions. Perhaps it’s a result of the lifestyle change – emerging from winter hibernation to spend more time outside. Whatever it is that prompts this seasonal hormone shift, seed cycling may be able to help ease the transition.

Seed Cycling Helps Maintain Hormone Balance

Hormones have a natural rhythm, but sometimes they can use a little support, so there aren’t any drastic changes in their levels. Our bodies are sensitive, and even small hormone shifts can change energy levels, cause sensitivity, and introduce other symptoms. Throughout their menstrual cycle, women may notice irregular periods, tenderness, headaches, PMS, cramps, and more. 

Here’s where seeds help: these supercharged foods carry certain oils, vitamins, and nutrients the body needs to produce, release, and metabolize hormones. Consuming different seeds at different times during a menstrual cycle helps promote a healthy balance of estrogen and progesterone.

Estrogen is high during the follicular phase (days 1 to 14 of your menstrual cycle). Eating flax and pumpkin seeds during these two weeks helps maintain healthy levels of estrogen. During the luteal phase (days 15 to 28 of your cycle), progesterone increases and estrogen dips. Consuming sesame and sunflower seeds during this time helps keep progesterone levels at a healthier level. 

 

The Best Time to Start Seed Cycling

If you’re ready to start a healthy new habit for spring, seed cycling may be a terrific fit for your lifestyle. It’s easy to incorporate into your routine, and it gives you extra nutrients to power your day. The best time to start seed cycling is on the first day of your menstrual cycle, so you know when to switch the seeds you need to eat.

Seed cycling is great for women, but men can benefit from seed cycling too. We all have hormones, and we can all benefit from super foods, like seeds. Try it out yourself!