Entering into my mid 30s has brought a deep desire to journey towards optimal health. While using plant-based functional foods and holistic rituals to do so. Looking back, I wish I would have started certain practices earlier knowing how even the smallest imbalance can affect our female bodies in big ways. From the quality of our skin, sleep cycles, energy level, mood, to fertility, libido, and weight. All of these rely on a healthy hormonal balance to perform at an optimal level.
One of the ways I've begun the hormonal balance journey is by incorporating seed cycling into my daily routine. Seed cycling is the practice of eating specific seeds to support the key hormones of each phase in the menstrual cycle. It gently aids the hormones to balance in ways that ease premenstrual symptoms while supporting a healthy menstrual cycle.
When hormone levels are balanced, estrogen rises during the first half of your cycle whereas progesterone levels rise (and estrogen levels gently decline) during the second half of your cycle. There are four phases of a menstrual cycle. The menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phase.
During the menstrual and follicular phase (first half), it is recommended to incorporate flax seeds and pumpkin seeds. Flax seeds contain lingans which bind excess estrogen. Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc. This helps support progesterone production which rises during the second phase of your cycle.
During the Ovulatory and Luteal phase (second half), it is recommended to incorporate sesame and sunflower seeds. Sesame seeds are also rich source of zinc which help boost progesterone production. Sesame seeds also contain lignans that help block excess estrogen while progesterone rises. Sunflower seeds are high in vitamin E and selenium. Vitamin E can help boost progesterone production, while selenium helps detox the liver of excess estrogen.
Now, more than ever, our bodies are overcome with substances and factors that disrupt the delicate balance of our cyclical hormones. By using these seeds we can better support our bodies and optimal hormone levels.
Using the Wellflower seed packs:
The entirety of our cycle averages 28 days. Day 1 is the first day of your cycle or the new moon (if cycle is absent). If you're period is longer than 28 days, simply adjust your days.
Menstrual and Follicular Phase take place during the first half of your cycle (generally days 1-14). During this phase, eat one Pepita Flax Snack Ball per day.
Ovulatory and Luteal Phase take place during the second half of your cycle (generally days 15-28). During this phase, eat one Sesame Sunflower Snack Ball per day.
To make snack balls:
Combine the proper Wellflower seed mix. I'm using the Phase Two pack. (You can purchase the full set Here) with one cup of coconut butter, nut butter, or seed butter with 1/4-1/2 cup of plant milk. (I use almond butter and oat milk). If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add 1/4 cup of honey, maple syrup, or date syrup.
Add gradually and mix well to dough consistency. Pack tightly and roll into 14 balls. Place in the refrigerator for an hour to form.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for two weeks or in the freezer for 2 months.
It's important to keep in mind that the functional health journey is not a quick fix. It takes time and dedication to achieve optimal results. However, the benefits are far greater than that of a quick fix plan. And what I love most about it is the simple yet ritualistic side that makes my days feel more purposeful and enjoyable.
May your life be filled with optimal wellness.
xx, Christie
