How to Balance Hormones Naturally

Scientists have identified more than 50 hormones. Hormones in the human body behave as chemical messengers, coordinating different functions by carrying messages through the body to different organs, the skin, muscles, and tissue. 

They control the body’s metabolism, blood sugar, blood pressure, electrolytes, temperature, growth and development, sexual and reproductive functions, sleep-wake cycles, mood, and more.  

Even minor changes in hormone levels can disrupt normal functioning and often require medical treatment. However, knowing how to control hormonal imbalances naturally can also aid in preventing conditions related to imbalances. This article examines what hormonal imbalances are and how to cure hormonal imbalances in females and males naturally.  

Read more about hormonal changes during pregnancy 

What is a Hormonal Imbalance?   

Hormonal imbalances occur when there is too little or too much of a specific hormone in the bloodstream. Several factors, such as a poor diet, inactive lifestyle, stress, certain medical conditions, puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and more, could cause hormonal imbalances. Since hormones are vital in daily bodily functions, disruptions and imbalances can lead to significant health problems and harmful conditions.  

Hormonal imbalances can have different symptoms depending on the type of hormone and the patient’s gender. Some common signs include mood swings, low sex drive, unexplained weight gain or loss, rashes, acne, erectile dysfunction (in men), irregular menstruation or infertility (in women), and more. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital to preventing complications from hormone imbalances. It is important to learn how to balance hormones naturally.   

How Can Hormones Be Balanced Naturally? 

Lifestyle habits like regular exercise, healthy and nutritious diets, and stress management can help to balance hormones. Some important practices to incorporate include: 

1. Getting Adequate Sleep

Sleep is one of the most critical factors in maintaining hormone balance. Hormone levels typically fluctuate during the day based on the quality of sleep an individual gets. Inadequate sleep can also cause higher glucose levels, insulin resistance, and reduced metabolic rates (or RMR, which determines how much energy an individual burns during inactivity). In contrast, getting high-quality, undisturbed sleep during the night can help regulate the hormones mentioned above.

2. Avoiding Artificial/Blue Light 

In recent years, people have been exposed to more digital devices and screens, and they have also been exposed to more blue light. Blue light disrupts hormone cycles by signalling the body that it is daytime, causing the body to adjust hormones accordingly. This can disrupt sleep cycles and suppress hormones like melatonin, negatively impacting bodily functions. Limiting exposure to blue light to regulate hormones and restore the body’s natural circadian rhythm is essential. 

3. Managing Stress Levels

 Stress significantly impacts the endocrine system, increasing adrenaline and cortisol. Excessive levels of these hormones can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, leading to cardiovascular problems, mood swings, obesity, and more. Activities like listening to music, meditation, exercise, reading, and others can help reduce overall stress. Consulting a medical professional can also be beneficial for chronic or extreme stress and anxiety. 

4. Consuming Sufficient Protein 

 A healthy diet also has a role in balancing hormones. A significant factor is protein consumption. The body requires protein to produce peptide hormones, which are a type of protein-derived hormone. These hormones are essential for maintaining metabolism, reproduction, stress, appetite, growth, and energy. Eating adequate amounts of protein in every meal can also reduce hormones like ghrelin (which increases hunger). Some foods to incorporate into a healthy diet are eggs, lentils, chicken, and fish.  

5. Reducing Sugar 

Consuming high amounts of sugar can promote insulin resistance. This can increase the chances of diabetes, obesity, and other harmful conditions. Lowering sugar intake in the diet can help maintain balanced hormone levels. 

6. Drinking Enough Water

Hydration is one of the most overlooked factors in balancing hormone levels. Dehydration causes severe hormonal imbalances. It has been linked to increased stress hormones, hunger hormones, and insulin resistance. It is also associated with a decrease in sex hormones and anti-diuretic hormones (ADH). Drinking at least 2 litres of water every day is crucial. Herbal teas and fruit-infused water can also help keep individuals hydrated.

7. Avoiding Toxins 

Environmental toxins can disrupt an individual’s hormonal balance. Using organic and natural skincare products and household cleaning products can help avoid toxins. In rare cases, plastic containers can also be toxic, especially when in contact with food and drinks in the home. 

If an individual is experiencing signs of imbalanced hormones, it is essential to consult a doctor and conduct hormone-level tests. For accurate estrogen, growth hormone, testosterone tests, and other hormone tests, visit the Dr Lal PathLabs website today.  

FAQs 

1. How can one tell if their hormones are not balanced?

Some signs of hormonal imbalances include menstrual irregularities, hair and skin problems, low sex drive, difficulties with sleep and mood, digestive issues, and weight problems.  

2. How to balance your hormones in a week?

Balancing hormones in one week is typically not possible. However, lifestyle changes can naturally balance hormone levels over time.