Foods for Happy Hormones

We have all be on the hormone rollercoaster- pregnancy hormones, postpartum hormones, breastfeeding hormones, weaning hormones, period hormones, stress hormones...the list goes on...

Did you know that the foods we eat can help to balance our hormones and keep us happy? Here at HQ we love the power of food as medicine so read on.

Including key nutrients in your diet can help build a 'nutrient bank' so you have a good supply when your body needs to make a withdrawal e.g. during breastfeeding, your menstrual cycle or during stressful times

So what hormones helping nutrients and foods should I look out for?

B6, B9 (folate) and B12 - all help to regulate hormones and boost your mood. These B vitamins work together to provide a pathway for oestrogen to leave the body. They are also a powerhouse for energy production.

B12 is naturally found in animal products. For mood boosting B6 tuck into your 'smashed avo'. Leafy greens, pistachios and tuna are good sources too.

For a B9 boost, try some beans, lentils, asparagus and spinach. B Vitamins are water soluble, not stored by the body, so we need to ensure we get enough of these goodies daily.

Low Magnesium in your diet can lead to food cravings, poor sleep, muscle cramping, low energy and mood. So add some spinach, broccoli and pumpkin seeds. Dark chocolate with a high cacao content is a good source of magnesium, the darker the better. Good news for those chocolate cravings!

Zinc - enables utilisation of oestrogen and progesterone, essential for reproductive health. Good sources include beans, tofu, nuts and legumes.

Healthy Fats - are the building blocks for hormones. Make sure you are getting enough Omega 3 and healthy fats in your diet - salmon, walnuts, olive oil, chia seeds and avocados will help you on your way

Here at HQ we know as mums it’s hard to get the nutrients you need - we are here to help on your journey through motherhood.