Ever wonder why you've been feeling a bit off lately? The answer might be lurking in your gut. Yes, that’s right! Gut health is intricately tied to hormone health. If your gut is unhappy, your hormones might be out of whack, too.

Different hormones—like thyroid, stress, or sex hormones—can mess with your body big time. These effects can include GI symptoms such as weight gain, constipation, and problems with bowel movements.

Some hormones can also affect digestion and metabolism, and hormonal changes can slow down or speed up these and other processes.

So, what should you do when faced with the horrible hormonal belly blues? Well, stress management and sufficient sleep are super important, as is regular exercise.

Not surprisingly, food plays a huge role as well. Keep reading to discover ten foods that can help your gut and hormones play nice.

1. Avocados

Avocados are more than just a trendy toast topping. These creamy delights are rich in healthy fats and fiber, crucial for hormone production and gut health. The monounsaturated fats in avocados help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins, essential for producing hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

2. Fermented Foods

Think kimchi, sauerkraut, yogurt, and kefir. These foods are packed with probiotics, the good bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut microbiome is vital for hormone regulation because it helps break down and eliminate excess hormones, preventing imbalances.

3. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are nutrient powerhouses. They are high in magnesium, which is crucial in hormone regulation. Magnesium helps to balance cortisol levels, the stress hormone, and supports overall hormonal balance.

4. Nuts and Seeds

Seeds such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and nuts like almonds and walnuts are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are anti-inflammatory and can help in balancing hormones. Flaxseeds, in particular, are rich in lignans, which have a beneficial effect on estrogen levels.

5. Berries

Berries, including blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, are rich in antioxidants and fiber. They help in reducing inflammation and supporting a healthy gut. The antioxidants in berries protect your cells from damage, which is essential for maintaining hormone balance.

6. Fatty Fish

Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are known to reduce inflammation and support brain health, which is crucial for hormone production and regulation. Omega-3s also help in reducing menstrual pain and balancing mood swings.

7. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a fantastic source of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential in the production of hormones like progesterone. Additionally, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent insulin spikes.

8. Whole Grains

Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats are rich in fiber and essential nutrients. They help maintain steady blood sugar levels, which is crucial for hormone balance. The fiber in whole grains also supports a healthy gut by feeding the beneficial bacteria.

9. Turmeric

This golden spice is not just for curries. Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. Chronic inflammation can lead to hormonal imbalances, and including turmeric in your diet can help reduce inflammation and support overall hormone health.

10. Cruciferous Vegetables

Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage belong to the cruciferous vegetable family. These veggies contain indole-3-carbinol, a compound that supports liver detoxification and helps in the metabolism of estrogen, thus promoting hormone balance.

The Bottom Line

Incorporating these foods into your diet can help support your gut and hormone health. If you’re looking for an extra boost, consider Zenwise’s Digestive Enzymes or Zen-o-Pause.™ They are both formulated to support a healthy gut, which in turn can help regulate your hormones.

Do you still have some nagging questions regarding your gut health? Our customer service team is eager to help! Reach them at support@zenwise.com or M-F from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST at (800) 940-1972.