Continuing our journey of managing uterine fibroid symptoms, in this blog we explore the popular trend of seed cycling and its effects on fibroid symptoms.
Women’s reproductive health functions on a very delicate balance between different hormones. When something goes wrong, it creates havoc on the body due to hormonal imbalance.
This guide aims to help you manage fibroids by balancing your hormones and potentially boosting fertility. Read on to learn about seed cycling, how and when to incorporate them into your diet, and the benefits of this trending practice.
Understanding Seed Cycling
- Seed cycling involves consuming particular seeds at specific times of the menstruation cycle to enhance the likelihood of balancing hormones.
- The idea is that certain seeds are super nutrient-dense and abundant in phytoestrogens- naturally occurring plant estrogens that help work on both the production and balancing of two major female sex hormones: estrogen and progesterone.
Seed cycling consists of a two-phase approach:
1. Follicular Phase (Day 1 to 14)
- Starting with the very first day of menstruation, flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds should be consumed up until the day of ovulation during the first half of the menstrual cycle.
- They allow the production of estrogen and support metabolic processes.
2. Luteal Phase (Day 15 to 28)
During the second half of the menstrual cycle, from ovulation to the start of the next period, women are advised to consume sesame seeds and sunflower seeds. These seeds support progesterone production.
How Does Seed Cycling Work?
Seed Cycling includes consuming flax seeds and pumpkin seeds during the follicular phase while sunflower and sesame seeds during the luteal phase. All seed types have their nutritional value that assists in balancing hormones.
Follicular Phase (Day 1 to 14)
Flaxseeds:
- Rich in lignans, which is a phytoestrogen believed to balance levels of estrogens in the system.
- Some studies indicate that lignans can bind to estrogen receptors, thus reducing the risk of excessive estrogen( also called estrogen dominance) that is often associated with the growth of fibroids in women.
- Besides, flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are well known for their anti-inflammatory effects.
- Benefits: A high content of lignans can modulate elevated levels of estrogen within the body by reducing the risk of estrogen dominance. It is believed that high levels of estrogen play a major role in accelerating the growth of fibroids.
Pumpkin Seeds:
- Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, which is very critical for hormone balance and production.
- Zinc helps in ovulation, which complements the production of progesterone, the balancing hormone against too much estrogen, whose dominance may trigger the growth of uterine fibroids.
- Benefits: Zinc plays a crucial role in balancing hormones and therefore can sustain regular periods, thus reducing symptoms of fibroids.
2. Luteal Phase (Day 15 to 28)
Sunflower Seeds:
- Rich source of selenium, and vitamin E, they act as antioxidants that encourage the production of progesterone and protect the cells from oxidative stress.
- Healthy levels of progesterone help balance out estrogen and may further alleviate the symptoms of fibroids.
- Benefits: Selenium can help in the detoxification of excess estrogen, while both vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids promote good hormonal health.
Sesame Seeds:
- Sesame seeds are a dense source of lignans and essential fatty acids, which work together to promote balanced hormone levels.
- They are also a good source of calcium, magnesium, and iron; minerals that support total reproductive health.
- Benefits: Due to the presence of lignans, the amounts of estrogen and progesterone are balanced in the body, thus alleviating fibroid symptoms.
Implementing Seed Cycling in Your Routine
To start seed cycling, follow this simple plan that aligns with your menstrual cycle.
1. Days 1 to 14 (Follicular Phase):
- 1 tablespoon of flaxseeds
- 1 tablespoon of pumpkin seeds
2. Days 15 to 28 (Luteal Phase):
- 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon of sunflower seeds
It is essential to use raw, organic seeds and grind them well before consuming them for better absorption.
How Seed Cycling May Help with Uterine Fibroids
Hormonal imbalance, due to estrogen dominance, predisposes to the development of uterine fibroids. Balancing the levels of estrogen with progesterone might reduce the risk of growing fibroids or, at least, alleviate the symptoms related to it. Here are a couple of ways seed cycling can be beneficial.
- Regulating Estrogen Levels
- Excessive estrogen may also act like most exogenous hormones, stimulating the growth of fibroids.
- Flaxseed and sesame seeds contain lignans, which work to modulate levels of estrogen by binding to sites of estrogen receptors, stimulating the body to remove excess estrogen.
- Supporting Progesterone Production
- Progesterone balances out the effects of estrogen.
- Pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are rich sources of many essential nutrients like zinc and vitamin E, which are associated with progesterone production. Their consumption can maintain hormonal balance.
- Reducing Inflammation
- The development and progression of fibroids are associated with chronic inflammation.
- The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed, coupled with the antioxidants of sunflower seeds, may reduce the symptoms of fibroids.
- Enhancing Detoxification
- Efficient detoxification processes must be maintained to rid excess hormones and other toxins from the body.
- The indigestible fiber in seeds such as flaxseeds and sesame seeds combines with nutrients to sustain liver function and detoxification pathways that facilitate the elimination of excess estrogen from the system.
Personalizing Your Seed Cycling Routine
Seed cycling is a flexible practice that needs to be adjusted according to your way of life and nutrition. Here are some tips that can be followed to incorporate seed cycling work sustainably for them:
- Consistency is key: To get maximum advantage from seed cycling, the most crucial factor is consistency. Add the seeds to your diet and at least give this routine a three to six-month shot before coming to any conclusion.
- Grind seeds before eating: As compared to whole seeds, ground seeds are considered better for nutrient absorption. It is better to grind the seeds or buy pre-ground seeds.
- Add them to your diet: Adding these seeds to various foods like salads soups, and smoothies, sprinkle on salads, stir into yogurt, or simply add to baking is a great way to consume them.
- Tracking Symptoms: Keeping track of your menstrual cycle and the severity of symptoms experienced can give you a very good insight into whether seed cycling is working for you or not.
The seed cycle indeed helps in relieving the symptoms of fibroid and improves overall hormonal health. Anyone with existing health conditions and under medication should consult a healthcare provider before starting seed cycling.
Seed cycling can be one of the methods for overcoming uterine fibroids in combination with other natural remedies and lifestyle modifications.
Uterine Fibroids Management Guide
Here is the 5 Steps Complete Guide for Management of Uterine Fibroids.
Conclusion
Seed cycling is a type of dietary management that can naturally achieve an essential hormonal balance in the body needed for resolving symptoms of uterine fibroids. The nutrients in the seeds have hormone-adjusting and anti-inflammatory properties.
Check 5 Steps Complete Guide for Management of Uterine Fibroids which can help in effectively alleviate symptoms and enhance overall well-being.
References:
- https://theseedcycle.au/blogs/biohacking-your-hormones/seed-cycling-for-hormone-health
- https://www.drlaurieterzo.com/dr-laurie-terzo-blog/2018/11/14/seed-cycling-for-hormone-regulation
- https://www.blissfullyhormonal.com/seed-cycling-for-fibroid-management/
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