Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a safe, natural way for men and women to re-balance their hormones and correct problems related to hormone imbalances, such as mood swings, infertility, loss of sex drive, fatigue, weight gain, and more. BHRT can even help patients improve the functioning of their immune systems and prevent other types of major diseases associated with the aging process.
Although BHRT has been proven a safe and effective method for treating hormone imbalances, there are additional lifestyle changes you can make that will drive and enhance the effects of BHRT.
Review this list of healthy lifestyle changes and begin implementing them in your life immediately to benefit even more from bioidentical hormone therapy.
Limit your caffeine intake
Heavy caffeine intake can wreak havoc on your central nervous system, immune system, and hormones all at the same time. Try drinking less coffee, and switch over to green and herbal teas, which contain far less caffeine and a number of antioxidants that will also benefit your immune system and overall health.
Maintain a healthy body weight
Carrying around extra weight will result in excess hormone production and hormone imbalances in general. Add a mixture of cardio and strength training to your daily fitness routine to lose weight, and to balance your hormones.
Eat more foods that contain phytoestrogens
Phytoestrogens are plant-based sources that have been found to help naturally balance your hormones. Examples of foods that contain phytoestrogens are peas, garbanzo beans, sunflower seeds, flax seeds, bean sprouts, and food products that contain soy. Just be sure to eat natural and organic products that do not contain preservatives and other forms of additives.
Add more cruciferous vegetables to your diet
Cruciferous vegetables contain unique compounds that can regulate estrogen levels and also reduce your risk for cancer. Examples of cruciferous vegetables are broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, bok choy, and Brussels sprouts.
Get good, quality sleep every night
Sleep is often underrated in our busy American culture, but lack of sleep can lead to major hormone imbalances and also increase your risk for diseases, weight gain, and mortality. Do whatever it takes to improve your current sleeping situation: try going to bed earlier, relaxing before bedtime, buying a new comfortable bed, or purchasing new sheet sets with a high thread count.
Consume more coconut oil
Coconut oil has been associated with a number of health benefits, such as fighting off yeast and candida, improving the body’s insulin use, and helping to boost energy and metabolism. Coconut oil can also help regulate hormones while assisting in weight loss and the reduction of inflammation.
Reduce your intake of omega-6 polyunsaturated fats
Omega-6 polyunsaturated fats are easily oxidized by the body, and can result in inflammation and increase the risk for cancer. These types of fats can also affect hormones and reproductive tissues in the body, leading to related health issues such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Reduce or completely omit polyunsaturated fats from your diet such as vegetable oil, peanut oil, margarine, and shortening, and substitute these foods with healthier alternatives such as coconut oil and olive oil.
Rock Creek Wellness specializes in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy that can help regulate your hormones in a safe and natural manner while also slowing down the aging process. Request a consultation today and get started with BHRT and our other anti-aging treatments.
