Hormonal health plays a crucial role in our overall well-being, influencing everything from mood to metabolism, skin to period health. However, many of us are unknowingly engaging in habits that can disrupt our hormonal balance every day.  It's the small factors that can add up to being big problems if we don’t have the awareness to address it. Here are five hidden habits that might be wreaking havoc on your hormones.

1. Ignoring Stress Management

Chronic stress is a major culprit behind hormonal imbalances. When stressed, we release excess cortisol, which can disrupt hormones specifically upsetting the delicate balance between oestrogen and progesterone.  This is especially important to understand as we head into mid 30’s to 40’s where our hormones become a little more temperamental.  The result - this can increase PMS symptoms including mood swings and headaches, as well as be a factor to consider in heavy periods.  Implementing stress awareness techniques can start to set you up for happier days ahead.  A simple walk around the block can be an amazing way to help regulate cortisol levels.

2. Skimping on Sleep

Sleep is not just a time for rest; it’s when our bodies heal, regenerate and importantly detoxify hormones. Lack of quality sleep can lead to imbalances in hormones like insulin and ghrelin, which regulate hunger and metabolism. Aim for 7-9 hours of restorative sleep each night to support hormonal health.

3. Overlooking Nutrition (especially fibre)

What you eat has a profound impact on your hormones yet something we still seem to think we can take a relaxed approach. Highly processed foods, excess sugar, seed oils, preservatives all can lead to inflammation and hormonal disruptions. A diet rich in nutrient-dense foods, particularly those high in fibre, is essential for so many reasons. Fibre helps regulate oestrogen levels by promoting it's excretion from the body, preventing excess oestrogen that can lead to hormonal imbalance. Fibre is also rich in prebiotics which help to feed the good gut bacteria as well as helps regulate blood sugar. And this is why we made M BODY ‘The ABSOLUTE’ because it does all of this in one teaspoon.  It not only supports digestion but also aids in maintaining balanced hormone levels.

4. Neglecting Exercise

While exercise is essential for overall health, neglecting it or over-exercising can both lead to hormonal issues. Moderate, consistent exercise helps regulate hormones like insulin and promotes the production of endorphins. As we get older, weight training becomes essential to support muscle mass, which supports healthy metabolism and keeps us youthful, able and vibrant.

5. Ignoring Your Cycle

Many women are unaware of the influence their menstrual cycle has on their overall health. Ignoring your cycle can lead to unrecognised hormonal fluctuations that affect your mood, energy levels, and even your weight. Tracking your cycle can help you understand your body better and manage symptoms effectively, give yourself grace in the times that you need to but also use the peaks of your cycle to perform at your best.

By becoming aware of these hidden habits, you can take proactive steps to support your hormonal health. Remember, small changes can lead to significant improvements in how you feel and function. Prioritise your health and well-being, and give your hormones the support they deserve!

Words by Nat Kringoudis