Seed Cycling for Healthy Hormones

PMS plain sucks. Bloating, cramps, headaches, nausea, digestive issues, moodiness…so many women deal with these every month!
But guess what? These are common but NOT normal.
It’s NOT normal to have to call off work because of period pain. You shouldn’t have to dread your cycle.

Ladies, did you know what you EAT will affect your menstrual cycle & hormone fluctuations? Certain foods and nutrients can actually help decrease PMS & other symptoms of hormone imbalances.

Some of these nutrients include:
Omega fatty Acids
Magnesium
Zinc
B Vitamins

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Seed Cycling for Hormonal Health

Seed Cycling is consuming specific types of raw seeds at different times during the a woman’s menstrual cycle. The rotation of the seeds supports the balance of hormones such as estrogen & progesterone.
It has been shown to improve symptoms such as PMS, irregular or painful cycles, and even conditions such as PCOS & missing cycles. It can also improve acne, mood swings, hot flashes etc that are other signs of hormonal imbalances.

Seed Cycling is a great way to nourish your body, by eating certain seeds depending on the phase of your cycle. These seeds include:
Phase 1 Follicular: Pumpkin, Flax
Phase 2 Luteal: Sunflower & Sesame
 
One can follow the seed recommendations based the lunar cycle or their own monthly cycle. The protocol is fairly simple:
Day 1-14 of cycle (or at New Moon): Consume Flaxseed & Pumpkin Seeds
Day 15-28 (post ovulation or at Full Moon): Consume Sesame & Sunflower Seeds

Some ideas are to add the seeds to smoothies or shakes, oatmeal, salads, etc. From what I’ve researched, 1 TBSP of each seed is the ideal amount per day (2 TBSP total) to get the most benefit.

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Below are 2 recipes that I have created as an easy way to consume the seeds. My “Seed Cycling No Bake Energy Bites” are easy, healthy and tasty!

PHASE 1 Seed Cycling Bites:

3/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
3/4 cup (ground) flaxseed
64g (1/4 cup) almond butter
50g collagen protein (or sub other protein powder)
2 TB almond milk (or water; omit if not using collagen)
1 TB (10g) raw organic honey or pure maple syrup (optional)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 organic stevia extract (optional)
Cinnamon & nutmeg to taste (approx 1/2 tsp)

Grind 1/2 of the pumpkin& the flaxseed into flour (I used my Ninja). Transfer to large bowl & add all other ingredients, adding liquid last. It should be a thick dough like batter, but able to stir.

Form into balls (I made mine small). Makes approximately 28 10g balls.

Other optional add ins might be: hemp hearts, unsweetened coconut, chia seeds, cacao nibs, etc!! I make these Seed Energy Bites to have 2-3x daily as a snack!

Phase 2 Seed Cycling Energy Bites

Ingredients:
6 TB coconut flour
50g protein powder
2 TB erythritol sweetener (or to taste)
Cinnamon to taste
2 TB sunflower seeds
25g tahini
25g sunflower seed butter
2-3 TB water

Mix all dry ingredients in a small bowl. Add tahini and seed butter, then water 1 TB at a time until it becomes a dough texture.

Roll into bites (I weighed mine to 10g each). Makes 18 10g balls

APPROX. NUTRITION INFO (1 out of 18 bites)
44 calories
4g protein
2.5g carbs (1.5g fiber 0.5g sugar)
2.2g fat

Please remember that I am not a licensed physician and this is not medical advice. Seed cycling is a way to help support the body, but has not been shown to be a treatment or cure to any health conditions. Please consult with your physician before making any changes to your health.