With springtime and farmers market season upon us, it’s the ideal time to nourish our bodies with seasonal foods, support local agriculture and explore the joy of growing our own herbs and produce at home. When it comes to balancing hormones and nourishing our bodies, prioritizing whole, real, micronutrient-dense foods is absolutely essential

Supporting local: Be sure to check out local farmers markets this spring. Not only are we supporting the local economy and community, we are getting fresh produce with higher nutrient content. Local produce is typically harvested at its peak ripeness, meaning it hasn’t traveled long distances or stored for extended periods. Therefore, local produce contains much higher levels of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants including magnesium, which is one of the best hormone- balancing nutrients. Knowing where our food comes from can enhance our appreciation for it, promoting mindful eating. 

Eating in season

Eating seasonally can help align the body with natural rhythms, supporting hormonal balance. Seasonal foods often provide the specific nutrients our bodies need during that time of year. For example, vitamin C-rich foods are abundant in the winter when our immune systems need extra support. In the summer, when we lose more water through sweat, we have an abundance of water-rich fruits and vegetables. In the spring, we have leafy greens and asparagus which are rich in vitamins and minerals, support liver detoxification and hormone balance after winter. Eating seasonally also helps support the gut microbiome, which is crucial for hormone support and optimal health. Our gut microbiome thrives on diversity. Eating a wide variety of seasonal foods is key. 

Growing Herbs

Growing our own food gives us a deeper understanding of the food cycle and the effort that goes into producing food. Not only is gardening a proven stress reliever, which is crucial for hormonal balance, it can also double as a mindfulness practice. Growing our own herbs or produce reduces exposure to things like pesticides, which are harmful to the gut. In April, two easy herbs to grow are mint and rosemary. Mint is a great “cooling” herb which can be utilized to calm hot flashes and night sweats as well as for the ovulatory part of our cycle for those of us who are menstruation women. Rosemary is great for supporting liver detoxification and estrogen metabolism combating estrogen-dominance symptoms such as heavy periods and cramping. It’s all about getting back to the basics of eating real, whole foods, getting out in nature, and connecting with your community to support optimal health and hormonal balance. 

Source: Jennifer Brannigan, RD, LDN, IFNCP, CDCES, is a Functional Nutrition practitioner specializing in using food as medicine to help women reclaim their health and support hormonal balance. For more information or to arrange for a free consultation, email [email protected] or visit www.FunctionalDietitian.com.