The Seed Diet: A Natural Way to Support Hormonal Health

Seed cycling is a natural way to support hormonal balance. Discover how incorporating different seeds throughout your cycle can promote overall health and well-being.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical conditions. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or health regimen.

When it comes to balancing hormones, many women search for natural ways to nurture their bodies and feel more in tune with their cycles. For me, the journey towards hormonal balance started with an insightful recommendation from my Chinese medicine doctor after a Dutch test revealed some imbalances in my hormones. The solution she suggested?

Seed cycling.

I was initially curious but open-minded. Seed cycling involves eating different seeds during the various phases of your menstrual cycle to support hormonal health. It has been a game changer for me, and after years of incorporating this practice into my daily routine, I can wholeheartedly say it has made a noticeable difference in how I feel throughout the month.

What is the DUTCH Test?

The DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) test is a comprehensive way to assess hormone levels and metabolism. It measures a range of hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and melatonin, as well as their metabolites. The test provides a detailed look at how your body processes and utilizes these hormones, which can help identify imbalances or deficiencies.

To do the DUTCH test, you collect urine samples over a 24-hour period using a simple at-home kit provided by your healthcare provider. It’s a non-invasive, easy way to get an in-depth analysis of your hormonal health. Once you send the samples to the lab, a practitioner will interpret the results and suggest steps (such as seed cycling) to balance your hormones naturally.

What is Seed Cycling?

Seed cycling is a natural practice that involves eating specific seeds at different phases of your menstrual cycle to help balance estrogen and progesterone levels. The idea behind seed cycling is to provide the body with the nutrients it needs at each stage of your cycle.

Follicular Phase (Day 1 - Ovulation): This phase is about building estrogen. To support this, you consume flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds during the first half of your cycle.
Luteal Phase (Post-Ovulation - Menstruation): During this phase, progesterone is at its peak. To support this, you eat sunflower seeds and sesame seeds in the second half of your cycle.

Each of these seeds contains essential fatty acids, lignans, zinc, and other nutrients that can support hormone regulation and balance. When consumed regularly, they may help to reduce symptoms like PMS, cramps, and mood swings, and support overall hormonal harmony.

Why I Love Seed Cycling

Having practiced seed cycling for several years now, I can say that it's not only beneficial but easy to incorporate into daily life. For me, the key is making it fun and not a chore. I remember the first time my doctor introduced the idea to me, it felt like just one more thing I’d have to remember. But now, it’s just part of my routine.

One of the things I love most is how simple it is to add seeds into my meals. I’m a fan of yogurt, smoothies, and avocado toast, so incorporating seeds into these meals was an easy win. I typically add 2 tablespoons of seeds per meal, which is a manageable amount.

The possibilities are endless - you can even make pesto with seeds to support your hormonal health. A vibrant bowl of homemade pumpkin seed pesto, with rich green color and a sprinkle of seeds on top, ready to be enjoyed on pasta or as a dip.

Some of my favorite ways to enjoy seed cycling include:

Yogurt or Smoothie: Incorporating seeds into my morning yogurt or smoothie is a quick and effortless way to boost texture and crunch, all while adding extra nutrients to start my day.
Ramen: I love sprinkling seeds on top of my ramen for an added crunch and a nutritional boost. It’s a simple twist that makes my bowl even more satisfying.
Avocado Toast: A sprinkle of seeds on my avocado toast brings a burst of variety, turning this classic snack into something even more delightful and fun.
Eggs: Topping eggs with seeds not only adds a unique texture but also inspires me to experiment with different flavor combinations, turning a simple dish into something exciting.
Seed Bread: Adding seeds to homemade or store-bought bread infuses it with extra crunch and flavor, making each bite feel indulgent yet nourishing.

By adding seeds to a variety of meals, I’ve never felt like I’m forcing myself to eat them, and it keeps things interesting. It’s not just about eating seeds for the sake of it—it’s about enjoying the process of nourishing my body in a way that feels natural.

Where to Buy Good Seeds & How to Store Them

When purchasing seeds for seed cycling, it's essential to look for organic, raw, and high-quality options to ensure you're getting the best nutrients. Many health food stores, online retailers, and specialty shops offer organic, non-GMO seeds, and these are great choices. Look for brands that prioritize sustainability and quality sourcing.

Seeds should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness and prevent them from going rancid. They can lose their nutritional value if stored improperly, so refrigeration helps to preserve their potency for longer. Also, if I am running into the expiration date, I like to freeze seeds in ice trays with a little almond milk, so it's easy to pop them out and place into a blender for my smoothies.

Sprouted vs. Non-Sprouted Seeds

Sprouted seeds are seeds that have been soaked and allowed to begin the germination process. Some believe sprouted seeds may offer higher nutrient absorption and better digestibility. However, non-sprouted seeds still provide excellent health benefits. If you prefer sprouted seeds, you can find them in stores or sprout them at home by soaking them for a few hours and allowing them to sprout. Non-sprouted seeds are perfectly fine for seed cycling as long as they’re fresh and stored properly!

The Benefits I’ve Experienced

Since I started seed cycling, I’ve noticed several benefits that have made a significant impact on my overall well-being. These are some of the most notable ones:

Improved Hormonal Balance: The most important change I’ve noticed is a more stable hormonal cycle. Seed cycling has helped support my body’s natural rhythm, reducing symptoms like mood swings and fatigue.
Reduced PMS Symptoms: In the past, I would often experience bloating, irritability, and heavy periods. Seed cycling has helped to mitigate many of these symptoms, leaving me feeling more balanced throughout the month.
Increased Energy: Consuming a variety of nutrient-dense seeds has supported my overall energy levels. I don’t feel as sluggish or drained during certain points in my cycle, which has been a huge improvement.
Improved Skin Health: Along with balancing my hormones, I’ve noticed that my skin looks clearer and more radiant. The omega-3s and antioxidants in the seeds have supported a healthy complexion.
Digestive Health: Seeds are great for digestion, and I’ve found that incorporating them into my meals has helped keep my digestive system running smoothly.

Why You Should Consider Seed Cycling

For women looking to support their hormonal health in a natural and simple way, seed cycling is definitely worth considering. It’s easy to incorporate into daily meals and can have a lasting positive impact on hormonal balance. The best part is that it's not a one-size-fits-all solution—you can tailor it to your needs and preferences, just like I’ve done with my yogurt, ramen, and avocado toast.

Whether you’re dealing with hormone imbalances, PMS, or just want to feel more balanced, seed cycling could be the gentle, nourishing practice your body needs.

Remember, before starting any new health regimen, it's always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider to ensure it’s right for you. I can personally vouch for the benefits, but every body is unique!

Have you tried seed cycling? I'd love to hear about your experience or any tips you have for making it easier to incorporate into your routine!

All my light. All my love.

Namaste,

Jordan

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