Are Your Symptoms Hormonal? Understanding the Signs of Hormone Imbalance

In this enlightening episode of The Flow State podcast, hosts Monica Grohne (Marea founder) and Norah Candito (registered dietitian) dive deep into understanding hormonal symptoms and how to identify when various health issues might be connected to your hormones.

Understanding Hormones as Chemical Messengers

Hormones act as the body's chemical messengers, facilitating communication between different organs and the brain. They're not just about reproduction - both men and women have various hormones including estrogen and testosterone, just in different ratios. These messengers regulate everything from hunger and blood sugar to energy levels and mood.

Common Signs of Hormonal Fluctuations

The hosts share several key symptoms that often have hormonal roots:

• Mood changes and anxiety
• Sleep disruptions
• Energy level fluctuations
• Menstrual cramps
• Breast tenderness
• Cyclical migraines
• Acne (especially along the jawline)
• Changes in facial hair growth
• Heavy or irregular periods
• Digestive changes throughout the cycle

The Importance of Tracking Symptoms

One of the most powerful insights shared is the value of tracking symptoms alongside your menstrual cycle. Monica shares her personal experience of discovering that what she thought might be bipolar disorder was actually connected to her hormonal cycles. By tracking symptoms, many women discover clear patterns that correlate with specific phases of their cycle.

When to Consider Hormone Testing

The episode provides valuable guidance on hormone testing timing and necessity:

• Wait at least 3 months after stopping hormonal birth control
• Test FSH and LH on day 3 of your cycle if trying to conceive
• Check estrogen and progesterone levels around day 20 of your cycle
• Consider comprehensive testing like the DUTCH test for detailed hormone metabolism information

Natural Ways to Support Hormone Balance

The hosts outline several foundational approaches to hormone balance:

1. Nutrition Basics:
   • Ensure adequate overall nutrition
   • Include liver-supportive foods (cruciferous vegetables, microgreens)
   • Maintain proper fiber intake
   • Stay well-hydrated
2. Lifestyle Factors:
   • Regular bowel movements
   • Reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors
   • Minimize alcohol, excess caffeine, and sugar
   • Support liver health through diet

Key Takeaways

The episode emphasizes that "hormone imbalance" looks different for everyone - there's no universal standard for balanced hormones. What matters is finding the right balance for your body where you're symptom-free and feeling your best.

Importantly, the hosts stress that hormone symptoms often appear three months after significant life events or health changes, due to the 90-day cycle of follicle development. This understanding can help women better predict and prepare for potential hormonal shifts.

Remember: While tracking and awareness are essential first steps, you don't necessarily need expensive hormone testing to start making positive changes. Often, focusing on foundational nutrition and lifestyle factors can create significant improvements in hormonal symptoms.

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