Author: Dr. Ruhi

Seed Cycling for Hormonal Balance
Seed cycling is a natural approach to hormonal balance in which specific seeds are consumed at different stages of the menstrual cycle. Supporting balanced hormone levels, lowering PMS symptoms, increasing fertility, and regulating the menstrual cycle are all possible with straightforward practice. Functional nutrition may be able to help balance your hormones if you have PCOS, PMS, are close to menopause, or have recently stopped using hormonal birth control. The follicular and luteal phases of your menstrual cycle can be balanced using seed cycling by adjusting the major hormones involved.

In seed cycling, what types of seeds are used?

Typically, seed cycling involves flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds. The nutritional value of these seeds as well as their potential advantages in enhancing the hormones in various phases of the menstrual cycle led to their selection.

In phase 1, flax and pumpkin seeds are used; in phase 2, sesame and sunflower seeds are recommended. Each seed is said to offer nutritional advantages that boost the hormones in each phase.

Which seeds are used at what stage of the menstrual cycle?

Consuming particular seeds at various times during the menstrual cycle is known as “seed cycling.” In phase 1, flax and pumpkin seeds are used; in phase 2, sesame and sunflower seeds are recommended.

The stages of the process are broken down below, along with the seeds that were used in each:

Follicular Phase (Days 1–14):

The encouragement of estrogen production and balance is the main focus at this stage. Pumpkin and flax seeds may be useful in balancing estrogen because they contain lignans, which function as phytoestrogens.

Guidelines for the Follicular Phase
- 1 tablespoon raw organic pumpkin seeds
- 1 tablespoon of organic, raw, ground flax seeds
- These seeds can be incorporated into your diet by being added to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or salads.
Luteal Phase (Days 15–28):

Promoting progesterone production and balance is the main goal during this phase. Sesame and sunflower seeds can support healthy progesterone levels during the luteal phase, according to clinical research. Both seeds contain lignans and fatty acids that support hormone maintenance during the luteal phase. Vitamin E and selenium, which support ovulation, the synthesis of progesterone, and hormone detoxification, are also abundant in sunflower seeds.

Guidelines for the Luteal Phase:
- 1 Tbsp ground organic raw sunflower seeds
- 1 Tbsp ground organic raw sesame seeds
- Similar to the follicular phase, you can add these seeds to salads, stir-fries, or as a topping for yogurt or granola.
Consistency is key when it comes to seed cycling. To evaluate any potential effects on your menstrual cycle and hormonal balance, follow the protocol for at least three months. Remember to listen to your body and seek medical advice if you have any concerns or specific health conditions.

How to apply these seeds to the seed-cycling process

Here are a few well-liked methods for including seed cycling seeds in your diet:

Flaxseeds:
- Ground flaxseeds can be added to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or cereal.
- Ground flaxseeds can be sprinkled on salads or roasted vegetables.
- Flaxseed oil can be drizzled over cooked dishes or used in salad dressings.
- In baking recipes, flaxseed meal can be used in place of eggs.
Pumpkin seeds:
- Pumpkin seeds can be added to salads, granola, or trail mix.
- Toss pumpkin seeds into soups or stir-fries.
- Blend pumpkin seeds into smoothies or use as a yogurt topping.
Sesame seeds:
- Sesame seeds can be lightly toasted and used as a garnish for a variety of dishes.
- Serve sesame seeds with stir-fries, noodles, or rice.
- Sesame seeds can be sprinkled on salads or roasted vegetables.
- Sesame seed butter (tahini) can also be used in dressings, dips, and sauces.
Sunflower seeds:
- Sunflower seeds can be mixed into granola or energy bars.
- Salads or roasted vegetables can be topped with sunflower seeds.
- Spread sunflower seed butter on toast or add it to recipes.
Remember:
- These seeds can be eaten whole or ground, depending on your preferences.
- To maintain their freshness and nutritional quality, seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place.
- Except for flax seeds, all seeds should be soaked and consumed. This is important to get rid of the phytic acid, which acts as an anti-nutrient.
What are the advantages of using flax seed and pumpkin seed during the follicular phase?

Utilizing flaxseed and pumpkin seeds during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle is a crucial part of seed cycling. While zinc and magnesium in pumpkin seeds help with hormone regulation and general health, lignans in flaxseeds support the production and balance of estrogen.

These seeds are also known for their nutritional composition:

Flaxseeds:
- Flaxseeds are one of the richest sources of lignans, which are plant compounds with antioxidant and phytoestrogenic properties.
- Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid, is abundant in flaxseeds.
- High in soluble and insoluble fiber, which can promote digestive health, regulate bowel movements, and contribute to a feeling of fullness. They help with estrogen production and balance.
- Flaxseeds can be consumed whole to improve nutrient absorption.
Pumpkin Seeds:
- Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, an essential mineral involved in a variety of physiological processes such as hormone production and immune function.
- Pumpkin seeds are high in magnesium, which is essential for a variety of bodily functions such as muscle relaxation, nerve function, and bone health.
- Pumpkin seeds have a healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are beneficial to overall health and can help with hormonal balance.
Sesame Seeds:
- Sesame seeds have high calcium and lignan content.
- Sesame seeds contain magnesium, which aids in a variety of physiological processes such as hormone regulation, nerve function, and relaxation.
- They aid in progesterone production and balance.
- Sesame seeds come in both black and white varieties.
Sunflower Seeds:
- Sunflower seeds are high in vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage.
- Sunflower seeds contain selenium, a trace mineral that functions as an antioxidant and helps the immune system. It is also rich in magnesium.
- Sunflower seeds have a good balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for overall health and hormonal balance.
What are the advantages of eating sesame seeds and sunflower seeds during the luteal phase?

Because of their nutrient composition, sesame and sunflower seeds are used for their positive effects on hormonal regulation and overall health during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Sesame seeds may help with hormone balance, whereas sunflower seeds provide antioxidant support as well as essential nutrients.

Here are some common FAQs

Is seed cycling beneficial?
- Seed cycling is a popular natural approach to hormonal balance
- Incorporating nutrient-dense seeds into your diet can provide a variety of health benefits.
- Flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds are high in essential nutrients, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, all of which can help with overall health.
- Cycling helps regulate their menstrual cycles, reduces symptoms of hormonal imbalances, and promotes reproductive health.
How long does it take for the effect to be visible?
- The amount of time it takes to notice any potential effects of seed cycling varies from person to person.
- It is critical to approach seed cycling with realistic expectations and recognize that individual responses may vary.
- Some people may notice changes within a few menstrual cycles, while others may take longer.
- The underlying cause of hormonal imbalances, general health, and adherence to a balanced diet and lifestyle can all affect when you will start to notice any noticeable effects.
- It works in conjunction with other lifestyle factors such as eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting enough sleep..
Who can benefit from seed cycling?
- Individuals who menstruate and want to support hormonal balance or address symptoms of hormonal imbalances can benefit from seed cycling.
- It is most frequently used to regulate menstrual cycles, but it can also be used by those who have premenstrual syndrome (PMS), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), irregular menstrual cycles, or other hormonal problems.
Is seed cycling helpful for irregular menstruation, and if so, how?

Seed cycling is frequently regarded as a natural approach to regulating menstrual cycles, including irregular menstruation.

Here’s how seed cycling could help with irregular menstruation:
- Hormonal balance: By incorporating these seeds into your diet, you may help to support hormone production and balance, potentially leading to more regular menstrual cycles.
- Nutrient support: The seeds used in seed cycling are nutrient-dense and contain a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall health. Adequate nutrition is critical for hormonal regulation, and incorporating these seeds into your diet can provide essential nutrients that may help with menstrual regularity.
- Whole-food approach: Seed cycling promotes a whole-food approach to nutrition, emphasizing the consumption of nutrient-dense seeds as part of a balanced diet.
Can we use the moon cycle to start the seed cycle if our date is irregular?

The lunar cycle can be used as a guide if your menstrual cycle is irregular in order to help with seed cycling.
- Using a lunar calendar or a moon phase app, you can keep track of the moon’s phases. The lunar cycle is divided into four phases: New Moon, Waxing Moon, Full Moon, and Waning Moon. Each phase lasts roughly 7–8 days.
- If you keep track of the lunar phases, you can match each phase with a different seed. For example, you can begin eating flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds during the New Moon phase. As the moon progresses through the Waxing Moon, Full Moon, and Waning Moon phases, you can switch to sesame and sunflower seeds.
- While aligning seed cycling with the lunar cycle can be a symbolic approach, keep in mind that your menstrual cycle may not always correspond to the lunar phases. If your menstrual cycle does not correspond to the lunar cycle, you can still follow the seed recommendations based on the lunar phase while adjusting the timing to your own cycle.
Remember that seed cycling, whether it aligns with the lunar cycle or your menstrual cycle, can be a beneficial practice for hormonal balance.

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June 20, 2024
Daily Routine to Overcome Parasitic Infections
The startling truth is that almost everyone is parasitized. Yes, even healthy individuals who are symptom-free. Parasites can affect anyone, although they are particularly common in children and adults with compromised immune systems. The issue is whether or not these parasites are promoting health or sickness (because weirdly, sometimes parasites are useful for health). These creatures only become an issue when we become infected or overrun by them, and when they do, the symptoms that they produce can be fatal.

The following are some of the most typical indications and symptoms of intestinal parasites:
1. Digestive issues such as unexplained diarrhea, constipation, or lingering gas
2. Undiagnosed skin conditions like eczema, hives, and itching.
3. Joint and muscle ache
4. Feeling fatigued even after getting enough sleep
5. Despite eating a large dinner, constant hunger
6. Anemia due to iron deficiency
7. Teeth grinding during sleep, PICA
8. Unknown anxiety symptoms
9. Ongoing yeast infections, vaginal or anus itching
10. Nausea
How can you get parasites?

Consuming infected food, such as raw meat, or ingesting polluted water is one of the most popular methods to get parasites. Additionally, exposure to infected excrement can cause you to contract parasites (meaning: wash your hands after you use the bathroom – if everyone did, it could largely decrease the spread of the microscopic eggs of parasites).

However, parasites do not always pose a threat. Changing your diet may help you get rid of your parasite problem because they thrive on junk food, particularly sugar, and feed off of what you eat. People who have immune system problems or microbiome abnormalities are also more likely to have parasites. Being unwell essentially makes it easier for these invaders to take up residence in your body. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies, a suppressed immune system, which can lead to disease perpetuation, and severe gut dysfunction. Perhaps you can see how this is a vicious cycle: poor health weakens the immune system, attracting parasites, and parasite overgrowth weakens your health even more.

Food from our kitchen that can help fight parasitic infections

1. Neem and turmeric balls:

In morning have one marble size ball of neem and marble size ball of turmeric empty stomach

Benefits:
- Fights harmful microorganisms
- Makes you aware of how much food you should eat
- Distributes energy evenly throughout the body
- Purifies the body and removes cancerous cells, cold-related diseases and blocked nostrils’ remedy, dilates the cellular structure, allowing the cells to absorb energy.
2. Oregano oil:

Oregano and the carvacrol it contains may aid in the fight against pathogens. It was discovered that oregano contained 3-30 times the antioxidant levels of the, which included thyme and marjoram. Candida yeast infections may thrive along with parasites. Oregano oil fights candida, protecting against “leaky gut,” a common digestive complaint.

3. Drinks that kills parasitic infection:

a) Pineapple juice: The generation of proinflammatory cytokines, which can cause colon inflammation, can be reduced by pineapple juice. The ability of bromelain to kill worms and its prowess in digesting meals high in protein make it a great weapon against intestinal parasites. You can boost your immune system and help fight off and get rid of parasites by regularly eating pineapple.

b) Garlic juice: Since ancient times, people have utilized garlic for its medical benefits, which include enhancing appetite, boosting immunity, eliminating parasites, and treating motion sickness. Bacterial and yeast overgrowth in the gut have been linked to chronically low stomach acid levels. It’s vital to note that garlic can enhance the production of stomach acids.

c) Apple cider vinegar: B-vitamins are found in apple cider vinegar, which makes it incredibly beneficial for the body. Parasites can be removed, digestion can be aided, and the pH equilibrium in the body can be restored.

4. Seeds:

a) Pumpkin seeds: Because they contain tetracyclic triterpenes that can aid in the removal of parasites from the body, pumpkin seeds are frequently used as a parasite treatment. In addition, cucurbitacin’s included in pumpkin seeds can paralyze worms and hinder their ability to hide within intestinal walls. As a result, they go through the bowels more easily when having a bowel movement.

b) Cucumber seeds: Tapeworms that live in the digestive tract can be easily removed with cucumber seeds. Because of this, it is wise to eat cucumber seeds as a preventative strategy even if you do not currently have a parasite. Tapeworms can be eliminated by cucumber enzymes.

c) Papaya seeds: It is advisable to consume papaya seeds in the morning as they aid to eradicate intestinal parasites.

5. Castor oil:

a) Cure constipation: Take one spoonful of food-grade (medical grade) castor oil before bedtime for three consecutive nights to treat constipation. You can do this once every three months, but avoid eating any raw vegetables or fruits and keep your meal intake very minimal.

b) Detox flush of stomach :

Do this on an empty stomach.
- Three teaspoons of food- or pharmaceutical-grade castor oil should be added to a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir, then drink immediately.
- Wait for 30 minutes.
- Drink one hot glass of water.
- Two glasses of warm water should be consumed after waiting 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, take two more glasses of warm water.
- Rest until you feel the need to use the restroom.
For two days after the flush, avoid greasy, spicy, and heavy foods. Also avoid eating anything uncooked.

This flush is quite powerful and effective because it washes away the body of all toxins. As a result, it may cause you to feel a little dizzy when flushing out parasites like tapeworms. Repeat every month for better results.

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References:
1. Cortés A, García-Ferrús M, Sotillo J, Guillermo Esteban J, Toledo R, Muñoz-Antolí C. Effects of dietary intake of garlic on intestinal trematodes. Parasitol Res. 2017;116(8):2119-2129. doi:10.1007/s00436-017-5511-1
2. Okeniyi JA, Ogunlesi TA, Oyelami OA, Adeyemi LA. Effectiveness of dried Carica papaya seeds against human intestinal parasitosis: a pilot study. J Med Food. 2007;10(1):194-196. doi:10.1089/jmf.2005.065
3. Force M, Sparks WS, Ronzio RA. Inhibition of enteric parasites by emulsified oil of oregano in vivo. Phytother Res. 2000;14(3):213-214. doi:10.1002/(sici)1099-1573(200005)14:3<213::aid-ptr583>3.0.co;2-u
4. Okada H, Kuhn C, Feillet H, Bach JF. The ‘hygiene hypothesis’ for autoimmune and allergic diseases: an update. Clin Exp Immunol. 2010;160(1):1-9. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2010.04139.x
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June 20, 2024
Black Are the New Greens
Did you ever think of the color “black” when you thought about which colors to include in your plate?

Well if not, then it’s high time to paint your diet black. Wondering why? Although black foods happen to be way healthier than many superfoods, we only think of greens, yellows and reds etc. as being loaded with nutrients and antioxidants. Black foods aren’t as frequently associated with nourishment and health.

Just to bust the myth, black foods are high in various essential nutrients. One example is anthocyanin pigments which have been found immensely useful to lower the risk of heart diseases, diabetes and even cancer!

Let’s dig deeper into the world of black foods.
1. Black rice
2. Black bean
3. Black olive
4. Black sesame
5. Black berries
6. Black raisin
7. Black garlic
8. Black walnut
Black Rice

It’s commonly cultivated in the South East Asian region. The Chinese refer to it as Forbidden Rice as, in ancient times, it used to be reserved for Chinese Royalty. High in lutein and zeaxanthin, this rice has a nutty flavor and supports good eye health. Because of their strong anti-oxidant and fiber content, it offers cancer-fighting qualities. Most importantly, it can be used in a number of recipes such as puddings, stir-fries, risotto, oatmeal, and noodles. Even bread can be prepared from it.

Black Bean

They are native to the US. The hard black shell of black beans is constituted out of antioxidant rich pigments called anthocyanins. Inside the beans, flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin are found in rich quantities. Given the fact that 80% of American populations are deficient in magnesium, one cup of black beans happens to provide an impressive 120 mg (30% DV) of magnesium. Not only that, they are loaded with antioxidants, protein, fiber and a number of essential vitamins and minerals, especially nutrients many of us do not get enough of. 275% of Manganese needs, 64% of Folate needs as well as good amounts of zinc, copper and iron get provided by black beans.

Black Olive

Black Olives are native to Central America, Mexico, Caribbean, and northern South America. They are rich in Vitamin E, polyphenols, oleocanthal, and monounsaturated fats and may be used in pasta, pasta, stir-fries, salads, pickles, and beverages. They are highly instrumental in preventing artery clogging, the maintenance of eye health, the prevention of DNA damage, the promotion of excellent skin health, and the maintenance of hair health.

Black Sesame

Originated in China and Southeast Asia, black sesame is high in protein, selenium, fibre, potassium, iron, calcium, copper, zinc, and Vitamin E and can be used in varieties of salads, garnishing, making laddoos, smoothies, soups, hummus, dips, tahini etc. It also includes Sesamin, an ingredient that aids in the reduction of inflammation that is in turn instrumental in eradicating pain & swelling. Ingesting 1-2 teaspoons of black sesame daily can do wonders to health.

Black Berries

Native to North and South America, Asia, and Europe, they are believed to drastically reduce inflammation and strengthen one’s immunity. Rich in Antioxidants, they can be extensively used in deserts, salads, smoothies or pancakes. Women having irregular or delayed menstrual cycles can derive immense benefits from blackberries.

Black Raisin

Native to UK, New Zealand, Australia and Ireland, this seasonal fruit has a range of benefits on offer. Rich in lutein, zeaxanthin, it prevents retinal macular degeneration and retinal damage. One of its very important components, resveratrol is known to have anti-cancer properties along with improvement of cardiac health by lowering of LDL levels. Furthermore, proanthocyanidins, another important component, is known to have immense benefits for skin health. Black raisins are widely suggested in smoothies, salads, jams, and even kheer too.

Black Garlic

Likely to have originated in Korea, the Cloves of Black Garlic are known to have immense health benefits. On being added to stir fries, soups and baking, the caramelised, savoury rich flavour adds a different dimension to the dishes! Furthermore, antioxidants such as these are helpful in preventing inflammation and act as immense memory boosters. Preventing cell damage and lending protection from cancer are two other health benefits as well.

Black Walnut

Native to Iran, black walnuts are rich in omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid which has high heart benefits. High in ellagic acid which is good for keeping the heart fit, they’re also high in unsaturated fats which help you lose weight by regulating hunger and giving a feeling of fullness. Rich in antioxidants such as melatonin, black walnuts can aid in improving sleep quality as well as duration.

Which one of these black foods have you tried? How was your experience?

Share it with us in the comments section below.

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References :
1. Chaiyasut, C., Sivamaruthi, B., Pengkumsri, N., Keapai, W., Kesika, P., Saelee, M., Tojing, P., Sirilun, S., Chaiyasut, K., Peerajan, S., & Lailerd, N. (2016). Germinated Thai Black Rice Extract Protects Experimental Diabetic Rats from Oxidative Stress and Other Diabetes-Related Consequences. Pharmaceuticals, 10(4), 3. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph10010003
2. Thompson, S. V., Winham, D. M., & Hutchins, A. M. (2009). Black bean and chickpea consumption reduce glycemic response as part of a rice meal. The FASEB Journal, 23(S1). https://doi.org/10.1096/fasebj.23.1_supplement.540.2
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June 20, 2024
All About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) ?

PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a lifestyle disorder that most commonly affects women of reproductive age. It is often misled, because it creates a label that it can’t be cured and can lead to a hopeless feeling. Generally what needs to be treated is the root cause instead of putting on band-aids that only cover things up. Most women with PCOS have insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is one underlying root cause of PCOS.

PCOS has various symptoms. Women may have 4-5 of these symptoms.

Common symptoms of PCOS include:
- Acne
- Weight gain or trouble losing weight.
- Extra hair on the face and body. Often women get thicker, darker facial hair and excess hair on the chest, belly, and back.
- Thinning hair on the scalp.
- Mood swings, depression.
- Bloating.
- Irregular periods. Women with PCOS have fewer than nine periods a year. Some women have no periods whereas others have very heavy bleeding.
- Fertility problems. Many women who have PCOS have trouble conceiving.
Struggling with Unwanted Facial Hair and Male Pattern Balding?

One of the symptoms of PCOS can be unwanted facial and body hair growth and male pattern balding. Let’s understand what causes it.
- Most PCOS cycles can be anovulatory cycles Anovulation leads to higher levels of testosterone. When a woman does not ovulate, the brain is still trying to stimulate that ovulation. Under this stimulation, more and more luteinizing hormones are released. When the ovaries are overwhelmed with luteinizing hormone, they tend to produce significantly higher levels of testosterone.
- Testosterone is a male hormone High levels of testosterone contributes to increase in body hair in women, in particular, on the face, maybe on the nipples or around the belly button area.
- High dihydrotestosterone or DHT High testosterone can also lead to high levels of dihydrotestosterone or DHT which can contribute to loss of head hair in women just like it does in men.
- High insulin levels make androgen receptors more sensitive to androgens Insulin resistance makes androgen receptors more sensitive to androgens and hence the symptoms of balding and unwanted hair growth appear. Testing for testosterone and DHEAS is essential if you are experiencing the above symptoms. PCOS Pofile test covers these parameters.
It is not Necessary to Have Cysts in Your Ovaries to Confirm PCOS

Not all women with PCOS will have cysts in their ovaries. Polycystic ovary is only a sign of PCOS and not the cause. You may have a normal ovary along with the symptoms of PCOS.

Often women get very concerned about having cysts in the ovary. Let’s understand more about the cysts in the ovary.

What does Cysts in The Ovary Mean?
- All women of reproductive age have some ovarian cysts. They’re really quite normal. Ovarian cysts are formed at every attempt at ovulation. The corpus luteum is a normal cyst that forms in the ovary every single month in women of childbearing age after ovulation. Those cysts generally are quite small and they are self-resolving.
- Having some small ovarian cysts is not a problem. It just means that the reproductive process is happening naturally.
- Large cysts accompanied with symptoms of hormonal imbalance need to be addressed Now larger cysts may arise. They can be painful just because they are causing physical impingement, but again, most often, they are self-resolving. In some cases, they do need to be removed if they are simply growing out of control.
What Causes Large Cysts in The Ovary?

It’s a sign of ovaries that are not generally producing eggs or ovulating consistently. Basically, what’s happening is that the egg maturity process is impaired so that the follicles are trying to mature, but they are not able to finish the maturation process in order to allow ovulation. What someone ends up with is a lot of cysts as evidence of that attempt at maturation, but those cysts are not proceeding to ovulation because the eggs within them are underdeveloped.

Main Root Causes of PCOS

Research today clearly points out that there are many different contributing causal factors for PCOS. Two primary drivers for PCOS are:
1. Insulin resistance High circulating levels of insulin, it’s called insulin-resistance. It is the starting point of the metabolic cascade that eventually leads to Type 2 diabetes. 50% of women with PCOS have excess body fat and high waist to hip ratios which are really classic dynamics of insulin-mediated fat storage. So, checking fasting insulin levels is very important.
2. Estrogen dominance The second driver is endocrine disruption and subsequent damage to the egg due to hormone-mimicking chemicals or what is often called xenoestrogenic toxicity
Well, I am sure you would be intrigued to know what’s causing Insulin resistance & Estrogen dominance. Here it is in a nut shell.
- Poor diet-Refined carbohydrates/sugar/trans fats
- Nutritional deficiency
- Food sensitivities-gluten, dairy
- Increased Gut permeability
- Imbalance in Gut
- microbiome/Dysbiosis
- Malabsorption
- Chronic stress
- Non Native EMF
- Toxin Load (heavy metals, plastics, personal care products, etc
- Poor Detoxification-Constipation,etc
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Estrogen mimicking foods-dairy & meat fed with hormones, hybrid soya
- Human Genome
If you have PCOS, do not consider it as a lifelong companion. It is a lifestyle disease which can be reversed by addressing the root cause. Drugs can only provide symptomatic relief. What do you want to choose-Band aid fix or Reversal?

Need help?
- Reach out to us on whatsapp https://wa.me/9196203 17773
- Join our WhatsApp group to know more about Functional Medicine approach for balancing hormones and stay updated about our upcoming webinars and programs. https://chat.whatsapp.com/KeFOA2DsA296Ht84xYxLfh
- Not on whatsapp, no worries. Join our Telegram group, https://t.me/hormonereset
- Know more about our Unique program for Hormone Reset : https://hormonereset.in/12-weeks-hormone-reset
References:-
1. Revised 2003 consensus on diagnostic criteria and long-term health risks related to polycystic ovary syndrome. (2004, January 1). ScienceDirect.
2. Dunaif, A. (1997). Insulin Resistance and the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Mechanism and Implications for Pathogenesis. Endocrine Reviews, 18(6), 774–800. https://doi.org/10.1210/er.18.6.774
3. Pelusi B, Gambineri A, Pasquali R. Type 2 diabetes and the polycystic ovary syndrome. Minerva Ginecol. 2004 Feb;56(1):41-51. PMID: 14973409.
4. Diamanti-Kandarakis E., Bourguignon, J. P., Giudice, L. C., Hauser, R., Prins, G. S., Soto, A. M., Zoeller, R. T., & Gore, A. C. (2009). Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement. Endocrine Reviews, 30(4), 293–342. https://doi.org/10.1210/er.2009-0002
5. De Leo V, Musacchio MC, Morgante G, La Marca A, Petraglia F. Polycystic ovary syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Minerva Ginecol. 2004 Feb;56(1):53-62. PMID: 14973410.
Source credit for this blog: FM Diagnostics

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June 20, 2024
Do Not Miss The Signs Your Periods Are Giving You About Your Body Health
If you are having a painful period, it is your body’s way of telling you something is off. If you are missing work or school because of a painful cycle, then something is wrong. Ideally your periods shouldn’t confine you to bed which is nonetheless the case these days! Mother nature didn’t create periods for it to be a monthly endurance test for you. Healthy periods are your Birthright and Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!

What Should Your Period Experience be Like?
- No cramping
- No bloating
- No breast tenderness
- No crazy mood swings
- No extreme fatigue.
What are You Made to Believe About Periods?

PMS is Very Normal
- The Truth is, it is not normal. It’s revealing the underlying problem
- Just because every woman today goes through PMS, it is accepted as NORMAL.
Birth Control Pill Makes Period Problem Disappear
- The Truth is they are band aid fixes to mask the symptoms.
- In the long run, it does more damage than any good.
Periods is About Fertility Only
- The Truth About Your Period – It’s Your 5th Vital Sign
Healthy periods are an important determinant while evaluating the health of girls/women. Periods are so much about how a woman feels everyday. It’s about her productivity, energy levels, hair, skin, moods and the list is long.

What does a Healthy Period Look Like?

Everyone’s period is different and that is OK. We are all different and unique women in regards to our personalities and physical features, and the same goes for our cycles as well.
- Periods should arrive every 25-35 days (average is 28-30 days)
- Bleed for 3-7 days
- Lose 25-80 millilitres of blood
- Bright, cranberry coloured blood that is the consistency of jelly that hasn’t set yet
- Luteal phase of 10-16 days (ideally at least 12 days!)
What Happens During a Menstrual Cycle?

During menstrual cycle, a series of hormone changes prepare a woman’s body for pregnancy. The ovaries make hormones, which include estrogen and progesterone. These are being released under the influence of our brain.
- During the first phase of the cycle, as the follicles mature, Estrogen is released. This helps is thickening of the uterus lining & preparing for pregnancy.
- When enough estrogen is built up, Luteinizing hormone(LH) is released. Luteinizing hormone(LH) stimulates ovulation(the release of an egg).
- During the second phase, progesterone becomes the most important hormone.
If a woman doesn’t become pregnant, the levels of progesterone will decrease and her body sheds the thickened uterine lining and the egg during the menstrual period

If any of these hormones are out of balance, the uterine cavity is not prepared well.

The house is not ready for the baby and it is the body’s wisdom to not support it. Some women experience Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It’s again due to one hormone dominating over the other. So hormones have to be in balance to send out the right messages.

What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that many women experience after ovulation and/or before the start of their menstrual period. In a healthy woman, post ovulation, estrogen levels will start decreasing and progesterone will start rising. If this trend doesn’t happen, and the estrogen levels continue to stay high, PMS symptoms start appearing. PMS is not normal Just because most women experience it today (given the impact of lifestyle and diet), PMS is made to be believed normal. Some women get their periods without any signs of PMS or only very mild symptoms. For others, PMS symptoms may be so severe that it makes it hard to do everyday activities.

There are Three Typical Imbalances Involved in PMS:
1. Relatively high estrogen levels all the time, so as progesterone falls, estrogen continues to dominate.
2. A woman’s baseline estrogen levels are normal but her progesterone levels are on the lower side.
3. A woman’s body is poor at detoxifying and ridding itself of estrogen in the liver or issues in the GI tract (chronic constipation)
Symptoms of PMS

Steps Towards Healthy Periods:
- There is no magic pill that will help you. Yes, it might silence the symptoms, but it will not fix the root cause
- Incorporating nourishing foods, healthy lifestyle changes and right supplements
- A detailed blood test can help to identify the underlying causes and plan the treatment strategy
We tried to cover everything about a healthy natural menstrual cycle in this blog. If you are facing any issue in your periods like irregularity, PMS, heavy periods, etc, do not delay and book our PCOS Profile Test. It will help you decode the root causes of your hormonal imbalance.

Need help?
- Reach out to us on whatsapp https://wa.me/9196203 17773
- Join our WhatsApp group to know more about Functional Medicine approach for balancing hormones and stay updated about our upcoming webinars and programs. https://chat.whatsapp.com/KeFOA2DsA296Ht84xYxLfh
- Not on whatsapp, no worries. Join our Telegram group, https://t.me/hormonereset
- Know more about our Unique program for Hormone Reset : https://hormonereset.in/12-weeks-hormone-reset
References:-
- Girman, A., Lee, R., Kligler, B. (2003). An integrative medicine approach to premenstrual syndrome. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 188 (5), S56–S65.
- Dietz, B. M., Hajirahimkhan, A., Dunlap, T. L., Bolton, J. L. (2016). Botanicals and their bioactive phytochemicals for women’s health. Pharmacological Reviews, 68(4): 1026-1073. doi: https://doi.org/10.1124/pr.115.010843 .
- Rocha Filho, F., Lima, J.C., Pinho Neto, J.S., Montarroyos, U. (2011). Essential fatty acids for premenstrual syndrome and their effect on prolactin and total cholesterol levels: a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study. Reproductive Health; 8: 2. doi: 10.1186/1742-4755-8-2.
- Dennerstein, L., Lehert, P., Heinemann, K. (2011). Global epidemiological study of variation of premenstrual symptoms with age and sociodemographic factors. Menopause International; 17(3): 96–101.
- Kaur, G., Gonsalves, L., Thacker, H. L. (2004). Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: a review for the treating practitioner. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine; 71: 303–5, 312–3, 317–8.
- Freeman, E., Halberstadt, M., Sammel, M. (2011). Core Symptoms That Discriminate Premenstrual Syndrome. Journal of Women’s Health; 20(1): 29–35.a
Source credit for this blog: FM Diagnostics

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June 20, 2024
Amazing Benefits Of The Super Mineral Selenium
Selenium is one of the most important components of the body’s antioxidant system, protecting the body against oxidative stress.

It is considered a trace mineral which doesn’t require large doses, but yet it is essential for optimal health. Selenium pairs up with vitamin E to become a more powerful antioxidant within the body. It is vital to the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. It works alongside vitamin C, helping to strengthen the body’s immune system, and an important ingredient to create the body’s master antioxidant called glutathione.

Let’s take a glance at a number of the scientifically proven ways in which this powerful mineral protects our health.
1. Thyroid Health:
The thyroid gland mainly produces T4 and T3 hormones. T3 is the active form. Hence T4 needs to be converted into T3 for it have the required impact on the body. When our body runs low on selenium, it cannot convert T4 into T3, which may cause a condition of low thyroid or hypothyroidism. Selenium is also needed for the synthesis of thyroperoxidase (TPO) enzyme. This enzyme is essential for production of T4. Hence lack of selenium impacts both, the production of T4 and conversion into T3.

The main symptoms of Hypothyroidism are weight gain, loss of energy, hair loss, facial puffiness, poor metabolism, anemia etc. In other words, a slow thyroid can mean slow anything and everything in the body! Supplementing with selenium can be useful in situations where sufficient T4 is not being produced or conversion of T4 to T3 is not happening.

Thus, supplementing with selenium can help reverse or reduce the hypothyroid symptoms and move the system towards an euthyroid state.
1. A Powerful Antioxidant
Antioxidants are powerful compounds in foods that lower inflammation, act as anti-aging agents, protect our DNA, and fight free radicals in our bodies.

High oxidative stress can lead to chronic diseases like cardio-vascular ailments, strokes, cancer, alzheimer’s and other chronic and degenrative diseases. Foods and supplements with selenium work wonders to combat oxidative stress and protect the body.

Coming back to the thyroid gland, the production of thyroid hormones also results in the production of H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) which is a highly oxidising substance. Presence of sufficient selenium is key to protecting the thyroid tissues from the potential oxidation due the H2O2.
1. Prevents Cancer:
Even in trace amounts, selenium wields amazing power preventing and fighting cancer. There is a robust correlation between levels of selenium within the blood and therefore the risk of certain cancers. DNA mutations are understood to be the main cause behind many cancers. Once again oxidative stress is the main cause leading to DNA damage and hence mutations. When DNA is damaged, cells may turn cancerous.

Selenium being a powerful antioxidant, helps protect the DNA from oxidative damage, leading to reduced chances of cancer.
1. Heart Health:
Atherosclerosis (build up of plaque inside the arteries) is the main cause of heart related issues. This buildup of plaque happens when the body tries to repair the damage caused by high levels of inflammation. As we already know, selenium lowers inflammation within the body which helps lower the likelyhood of plaque build-up leading to clogged cardiac arteries.

Incorporating selenium-rich foods into our diet may be a good way to stay away from oxidative stress and keep inflammation to a minimum. Selenium’s powerful antioxidant properties protect against heart diseases and strokes.
1. Powers up the Immune System:
Our immune systems perform a variety of life-preserving functions such as fighting off deadly bacteria, viruses, fungi etc. by fighting back infection and helping to heal wounds on the body as well. When the immune system goes awry, it can become overactive and attack the body, which can lead to autoimmune disease flare ups. Selenium’s antioxidant property lowers inflammation and protects the immune system by lowering oxidative stress. Deficiency of Selenium reduces the immune response to infections. Patients who are struggling with more serious infections like influenza A, tuberculosis and hepatitis C also can benefit selenium supplements.
1. Improves Asthma
Asthma is an inflammatory response to allergens. When bronchial tubes become inflamed, they constrict or spasm causing coughing, wheezing, and extreme shortness of breath. This can also become a life-threatening condition.

Most common medical treatment for asthma is corticosteroid inhalers that help dampen the inflammatory response and assist in opening up airways. It has many side effects and long term use is surely not good for health. Since asthma is related to high levels of oxidative stress and inflammation, selenium helps to reduce these symptoms and frequecy of attacks.
1. Boost Fertility:
Selenium supplementation also has a positive effect on testosterone levels, it increases sperm motility and blood flow, two important components for conception. Selenium is also found within the sperm mitochondria and may affect the behaviour and proper function of sperm as they move through the vagina to fertilize an ovum. For women, it’s thought that selenium can help to reduce the chance of miscarriage during initial stages of pregnancy.

Daily Recommendation & Toxicity of Selenium:

The recommended daily dose of Selenium is 55mcg for normal adults. Pregnant & breastfeeding mothers could consume 60-70mcg per day.

The upper limit for the optimal level of selenium for adults is 400 mcg. It is rare for anyone to overdose on selenium.

However, the risk of selenium toxicity is increased when this powerful antioxidant is introduced in the form of supplementation. Those who are on regular selenium supplementation need to keep an eye on their dietary selenium intake.

Very high doses of selenium are not advised as they may cause issues such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, brittle nails, skin rash, muscle soreness, kidney or heart failure and even death too.
Food sources of selenium:

Selenium is easily found in whole grains and few animal products such as fish and eggs. To add more of this powerful antioxidant to your diet, the following foods are recommended –

Brazil Nut

Sunflower seeds

Tuna

Sardines

Fortified bread

Brown rice
selenium may be a trace mineral, but it surely has far greater than a ‘trace’ effect on our all-round health and wellbeing. It has multiple positive health benefits. People can get selenium from supplements in the short term. However, in the long term, it is better to ensure optimum levels via food sources.

References:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0140673600024909
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/selenium/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/7630279_Selenium_and_the_Control_of_Thyroid_Hormone_Metabolism
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5307254/

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June 8, 2024