Let’s talk about periods…
Put simply, the female menstrual cycle is dependant on natural fluctuations of sex hormones and when consumed in excess, sugar can wreak havoc – altering these hormone levels and increasing inflammation.
When you think hormones play a role in almost all bodily functions including growth, regulating temperature, digestion, sleep, mood control, stress and energy – no wonder we feel out of whack when our hormones are imbalanced.
The hormones that regulate the female menstrual cycle are oestrogen, progesterone, follicular-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone and it’s the relationship and interactions between these which dictate what happens during a cycle.
So, what’s sugar got to do with it?
Essentially sugar (and specifically fructose) can have an indirect impact on oestrogen production via its effects on insulin and the subsequent interplay between hormones.
- Excess fructose is a major contributor to insulin resistance, which involves increased levels of insulin in the blood.
- High insulin provokes increased androgen synthesis (AKA testosterone) at the expense of oestrogen production.
- Insulin can also lower sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), which can increase the availability of oestrogen and testosterone.
While this may sound confusing, it’s when these hormones continuously fluctuate that issues arise. When oestrogen levels change, this can lower progesterone – affecting the delicate balance between the two.
And, symptoms of low progesterone can include anxiety, irritability, mood swings and headaches. It may also impair ovulation and excess testosterone and insulin are also linked to PCOS.
Sugar also leads to inflammation.
Research suggests that period pain is closely linked to high levels of inflammatory prostaglandins and elevated insulin from a high intake of sugar increases these prostaglandins. They are involved in muscle contraction, so higher levels mean more severe menstrual cramping. Ouch!
By removing causes of inflammation (including sugar), you can help to control period pain.
Does this mean I have to quit carbs too?
Just because you’ve quit sugar, doesn’t mean you have to ditch carbs altogether. In fact, we need them for healthy hormone production and restricting calories or carbs can shut down ovulation and interfere with your cycle.
Just opt for complex carbohydrates such and sweet potato and whole grains rather than the sugary refined ones!
In a nutshell…
The menstrual cycle is complex and so many factors can have an impact on it. We’re all different too so what may work for one person, might not for the next.
Cutting back on sugar can definitely positively impact your natural cycle but as always, if you’re suffering from diagnosed medical conditions, it’s recommended you seek the advice of a health professional.
0 comments :
Post a Comment