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Food and Recipe

Foods that cause hormonal imbalance

Gluten and Sugar Foods
Foods that contain added sugar or gluten can disrupt body hormones.

YOU may have heard this: hormonal imbalance. Skin problems like acne (hormonal acne) is one of the results of hormonal imbalance.

Most women experience the effects mid-cycle and/or right before their periods – the two points in the cycle when estrogen and testosterone are both at their highest points.

When women can’t process hormones correctly, estrogen and testosterone can accumulate. This prevents the body from being able to detox properly, which can lead to estrogen dominance. The result becomes inflamed skin and acne.

Special creams and soaps may temporarily relieve acne breakouts. What you eat will determine the outcome of your skin. In short, the foods you eat can either disrupt your hormones and cause inflammation, or help balance your hormones and soothe irritation.

To prevent skin breakouts, avoid these:

* Gluten foods. Gluten or added sugar in food is similar to dairy in the way that it affects the body. It causes inflammation in the gut and can disrupt hormone levels. It can also be responsible for other health issues like allergy.

* Dairy. A lot of dairy products contain synthetic hormones and antibiotics that contribute to excess hormones in the body. Dairy can cause inflammation in the body, leading to acne and other problems.

* Certain oils. Canola, sunflower, safflower and vegetable oils contain more omega-6 acids than omega-3 fatty acids. Most of the foods we eat contain omega-6, so an overabundance of omega-6 acids in the body can produce skin inflammation during peak estrogen times.

To put your hormones in check, try to eat these foods twice a week.

* Avocado. We’re now in season of avocados. Avocados contain beta-sitosterol, a substance that has been shown to lower balance hormone levels and decrease inflammation in the body.

* Pomegranate. This fruit may be expensive but it offers plenty of health benefits. Pomegranates have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They also provide the same estrogens that the female ovaries produce.

This fruit also helps reduce mood swings while helping your body fight off inflammation.

* Turmeric. Turmeric naturally reduces inflammation, pain and swelling in the body. Adding turmeric to your meals can help balance your hormones and keep your immune system strong. It’s also a great natural remedy for your skin.

* Chia seeds. This gluten-free grain can be added to almost any dish. It’s one of the highest sources of omega-3’s in nature.