Hormonal Balance in Perimenopause: The Power of Natural Ingredients
In the ever-evolving world of health and wellness, there's a growing emphasis on understanding the changes women undergo during perimenopause. This transitional phase, leading up to menopause, can be accompanied by a myriad of symptoms, many of which are attributed to hormonal imbalances. But fear not, nature has provided us with potent ingredients that can help restore harmony and balance. Let's dive into four of these remarkable ingredients and the evidence supporting their benefits.
Turmeric
Turmeric, renowned for its vibrant yellow hue, is more than just a kitchen staple. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate perimenopausal symptoms like joint pain and mood swings. Additionally, a review of multiple studies showed that turmeric can support liver function, ensuring efficient hormone metabolism and detoxification. In order to see if turmeric is helping your hormonal balances, it is important to supplement it everyday to feel the results internally and see them externally1.
Broccoli Sprout Extract
Broccoli sprouts are a powerhouse of sulforaphane, a compound known for its ability to support the body's natural detoxification processes. During perimenopause, efficient detoxification is crucial to ensure hormonal balance. Research indicates that sulforaphane can also provide antioxidant protection, guarding cells from damage and supporting overall health. Studies show that sulforaphane significantly helps with tissue damage known as oxidative stress, which is associated with aging properties and diabetes2. You are not alone if you believe eating a kilo of broccoli per day is silly, this is why broccoli sprout extract us perfect for everyday use! Not only will it support detoxification, ensure hormonal balance and assist with tissue repair, it also supports estrogen break down.
Resveratrol
Found in the skin of red grapes, resveratrol is a potent antioxidant that has gained attention for its potential anti-aging properties. For women in perimenopause, resveratrol can offer more than just youthful skin. Studies suggest that it can help in balancing estrogen levels, potentially easing symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. A study conducted in 2022, studying the difference of perimenopause symptoms, between women who supplemented resveratrol (oral) and those who did not. Results highlighted that women who were having resveratrol daily had increased sleep quality, minimal hot flushes and decreased hormonal sensitivity, when compared to those who did not supplement it3.
Pomegranate Seed Extract
Pomegranate seeds are a treasure trove of beneficial compounds, including ellagic acid and punicalagins. These compounds have been shown to support cardiovascular health, which can be of particular concern during perimenopause. Pomegranate seed extract may also play a role in supporting hormonal balance, making it a valuable ally during this transitional phase. Dr. Tori Hudson suggests that “pomegranate seed extract is essential for perimenopause… it softens the uncomfortable symptom & helps the female organs perform at their best”4. 200-300mg of this daily, has shown to assist hormonal discomfort quickly; studies highlight that results are seen within only 4 weeks4.
Navigating the challenges of perimenopause can be daunting for most, but nature has graced us with powerful ingredients. From the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric to the detoxifying benefits of broccoli sprout extract, the antioxidant prowess of resveratrol, and the support offered by pomegranate seed extract, these ingredients have been put on this earth to heal. Incorporating these ingredients into their daily routine can not only alleviate the symptoms of perimenopause but also pave the way for a healthier, more balanced transition into the next phase of life.
Perimenopause is such a pivotal period for a woman, navigating the flow of hormonal changes, imbalances and flushes within your body. Let’s take solace in the fact, nature has our back, offering powerful, natural, gentle and effective remedies, to help support women.
To find out more about products that have these ingredients you can use the search function on our website or email support@switchnutrition.com.au.
Disclaimer: The above article is merely a guide and is in no way a recommendation or a treatment protocol for any health conditions or diseases. You should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before changing your supplement, training or nutritional strategy. Supplementation should not be attempted by pregnant or breastfeeding women, anyone on prescription medication or children under the age of 15 unless advised by your qualified health care provider.
References
1Gunnars, K. (2021) 10 proven health benefits of turmeric and curcumin, Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric#:~:text=Turmeric%20%E2%80%94%20and%20especially%20its%20most,symptoms%20of%20depression%20and%20arthritis.
2Herrera, K. (2020) Broccoli and hormone balance, Women’s International Pharmacy. Available at: https://www.womensinternational.com/blog/broccoli-and-hormone-balance/.
3Cooney, C. et al. (2022) The effect of resveratrol on menopausal symptoms: A systematic review: Proceedings of the nutrition society, Cambridge Core. Available at: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/proceedings-of-the-nutrition-society/article/effect-of-resveratrol-on-menopausal-symptoms-a-systematic-review/510AD16D4CE2E91D9C36EBBF6E00422D.
4Pomegranate seed oil for menopause symptoms (2017) Natural Medicine Journal. Available at: https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/blog/pomegranate-seed-oil-menopause-symptoms.
