Hormones affect so many functions in the body (metabolism, appetite, menstrual cycles, reproductive health, mood, sleep and energy). Because of this change in hormonal health can sometimes be accompanied by concerns (irregular periods, unexplained weight changes, cravings, fatigue or mood fluctuations).

If you’re wondering what to eat to balance hormones the answer isn’t one food or a restrictive “hormone balancing” diet. Your eating pattern is much more important.

A balanced diet (vegetables, fruits, whole grains, protein rich foods, healthy fats and minimally processed foods) can give you the nutrients your body needs while supporting metabolic and overall health. Harvard’s Healthy Eating Plate similarly emphasizes vegetables and fruits, whole grains, healthy proteins and healthy fats. (The Nutrition Source).

This is not about completely changing Indian women’s eating habits — in many cases familiar foods like dal, veggies, curd, legumes whole grains nuts & seeds can be part of a nutritious hormone supportive eating pattern.