Women’s hormones operate in a complex system that requires a delicate balance to function optimally. Numerous factors, including diet, exercise, stress, sleep, and exposure to environmental toxins, affect this balance.
While not a panacea, seed cycling is a straightforward practice believed to support hormonal health.
What Is Seed Cycling?
Seed cycling involves consuming specific seeds during the two main phases of the menstrual cycle—the follicular and luteal phases—to promote a healthy balance of estrogen and progesterone levels. During the follicular phase (Days 1 to 14), women practicing seed cycling incorporate 1 to 2 tablespoons of pumpkin and flaxseeds daily. After ovulation, during the luteal phase (Days 15 to 28), these are swapped out for sunflower and sesame seeds.
Zena le Roux
Author
Zena le Roux is a health journalist with a master’s in investigative health journalism and a certified health and wellness coach specializing in functional nutrition. She is trained in sports nutrition, mindful eating, internal family systems, and applied polyvagal theory. She works in private practice and serves as a nutrition educator for a UK-based health school.
