Hormone balance & diet

Understanding Hormonal Balance and Its Impact on Women’s Health

Hormonal fluctuations have a significant impact on women’s health, particularly in conditions such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause. These changes can trigger a wide range of PMS symptoms and menopausal complaints, affecting mood, energy levels, metabolism, and overall wellbeing.

One of the most effective ways to support hormonal health is through proper nutrition and lifestyle choices. Certain nutrients can help regulate hormonal balance, ease PMS symptoms, and reduce menopausal discomfort. This article explores the importance of PMS, the four stages of menopause, and how diet can influence hormonal balance.

What Is PMS? Understanding Symptoms and Causes

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a group of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms that occur 1–2 weeks before menstruation.

Common PMS symptoms

• Mood swings, irritability, and anxiety

• Bloating and water retention

• Breast tenderness

• Headaches and fatigue

• Cravings and increased appetite

What causes PMS?
While the exact cause is not fully understood, fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels are considered the primary triggers. Stress, diet, and lifestyle factors may also contribute.

How Diet Affects PMS Symptoms

A hormone-balancing diet can help reduce PMS symptoms by supporting neurotransmitter function, lowering inflammation, and improving metabolic processes.

Key nutrients for relieving PMS

• Magnesium: Essential for many enzyme reactions; may help reduce bloating, mood swings, and breast tenderness. Found in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.¹

• Vitamin B6: Plays a key role in neurotransmitter synthesis and may support mood regulation. Sources include poultry, fish, bananas, and chickpeas.²

• Calcium and vitamin D: Adequate intake has been linked to reduced PMS symptoms. Dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, and sunlight help maintain healthy levels.²

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts; have anti-inflammatory properties that may ease menstrual pain and mood changes.³

Including these nutrient-rich foods can help naturally regulate hormones and minimize PMS-related discomfort.

What Is Menopause? Stages, Symptoms, and Signs

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and is defined by 12 consecutive months without menstruation. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.

The four stages of menopause

1. Premenopause – The normal reproductive phase before hormonal changes begin.

2. Perimenopause – The transitional phase with irregular cycles and fluctuating hormone levels.

3. Menopause – The official end of menstruation.

4. Postmenopause – The phase after menopause, when hormonal support is often beneficial.

Common signs of menopause

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Mood swings and irritability

• Memory lapses and difficulty concentrating

• Joint pain and muscle stiffness

• Reduced libido and vaginal dryness

• Sleep disturbances and fatigue

• Unexplained weight gain

Menopausal symptoms are largely caused by declining estrogen levels, which affect metabolism, bone density, skin elasticity, and mood stability.

Foods That Support Hormonal Balance During Menopause

• Phytoestrogens: Plant compounds that can mimic estrogen and help reduce hot flashes. Found in soy products, flaxseeds, and legumes.⁴

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Foods such as salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds, and walnuts reduce inflammation, support heart health, and may ease mood swings.⁵

• Calcium and vitamin D: Essential for bone health and osteoporosis prevention. Sources include dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, and leafy greens.⁴

• Antioxidant-rich foods: Berries, citrus fruits, spinach, and kale help combat oxidative stress and aging.⁴

• Probiotics: Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi support gut health, which plays a role in hormone metabolism.⁶

A nutrient-dense diet can support hormonal balance and help ensure a smoother transition through menopause.

Habits That Support Hormonal Health

Beyond nutrition, lifestyle choices have a significant impact on hormonal balance, PMS symptoms, and menopausal signs.

1. Regular physical activity

• Improves mood, metabolism, and sleep quality

• Reduces hot flashes and stress-related PMS symptoms⁷

2. Stress management

• Chronic stress disrupts hormone production

• Practices such as yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques can help⁸

3. Quality sleep

• 7–9 hours of uninterrupted sleep are essential for hormone regulation

• Poor sleep is linked to more severe PMS and menopausal symptoms⁸

A holistic approach that combines nutrition, movement, stress management, and adequate sleep forms the foundation for balanced hormonal health.

Sources:
1. https://www.pms.org.uk/app/uploads/2019/10/7-day-eating-plan.pdf?
2. https://www.nutritionist-resource.org.uk/articles/five-foods-for-pmt
3. https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/conditions/pms/the-top-5-foods-to-tackle-pms/
4. https://www.nutrition.org.uk/nutrition-for/women/menopause/managing-menopause-symptoms-with-nutrition-and-diet/
5. https://themenopauseco.com/blogs/learn/12-hormone-balancing-foods-to-add-to-your-diet
6. https://seemenopause.com/en-gb/blog/diet-menopause
7.https://health.clevelandclinic.org/11-diet-changes-that-help-you-fight-pms 
8.https://drruscio.com/how-to-balance-hormones-in-menopause/