LakeTalk 28
By Dr . Jennifer L . Yocum , Licensed Acupuncturist
Balancing Hormones Naturally with Seed Cycling
In their lifetimes , women experience fluctuations in hormone levels that may cause symptoms such as fertility challenges , night sweats , hot flashes , mental fogginess , irritability , and more . Many women are turning to natural methods to treat these symptoms . One natural and inexpensive method gaining popularity in recent years is seed cycling , a practice that harnesses the nutritional power of seeds to support hormonal health throughout a woman ' s life .
What is Seed Cycling ?
Seed cycling involves eating specific seeds during different phases of the menstrual cycle or month to support hormone production and balance ( Bippen , n . d .).
The basic protocol is as follows :
· Days 1-14 ( follicular phase ): 1-2 tablespoons each of ground flax seeds and pumpkin seeds daily · Days 15-28 ( luteal phase ): 1-2 tablespoons each of ground sunflower seeds and sesame seeds daily
The seeds used in each phase are chosen for their specific nutrient profiles . Flax seeds are rich in lignans , which can help modulate estrogen levels , while pumpkin seeds are high in zinc , supporting progesterone production ( Mandl , 2019 ). In the luteal phase , sunflower seeds provide vitamin E , which may help balance progesterone , and sesame seeds offer both zinc and selenium , supporting overall hormonal health ( Yunique Medical , 2023 ). These nutrients are believed to work synergistically with the body ' s natural hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle .