Seed cycling is hormone supporting and balancing practice. The idea is that certain types of seeds, such as pumpkin, flax, sunflower and sesame seeds, can help regulate the levels of estrogen, progesterone and other hormones.
It is believed that Seed cycling can regulate periods, reduce acne, PMS symptoms, treat PCOS, endometriosis, and infertility. It can also help stimulate menstruation if it’s absent and ease symptoms of menopause as hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, and mood swings.
How does it work?
Phase 1(menstruation to ovulation, approx. day 1 to day 14 of your cycle): eat 1-2 tbsps of ground pumpkin and ground flax seeds daily.
Phase 2(ovulation to menstruation, approx. day 15 to day 24 of your cycle): eat 1-2 tbsps of ground sunflower and ground sesame seeds daily.
There is little scientific research that supporting the improved hormonal balance in women. However, seeds have many health benefits. Also when seeds are incorporated consistently especially with other hormone stabling practices it can be very beneficial for you.
You can mix the ground seeds into a smoothie or sprinkle them on your oatmeal (chewing well also counts as grinding.)
Benefits of seeds
Pumpkin Seeds
Studies have shown the benefits of complex carbohydrates, fiber, omega 3, and zinc on fertility. High omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidant helps stimulate blood flow to sexual organs. This ensures fluid supply to follicles for proper egg maturity. Pumpkin seeds are also good source of vitamins like B12, A, and C. Pumpkin seed can also helps fight urinary disorders.
Flax seeds
They are a powerful package for balancing hormones and boosting fertility. They contain a generous dose of nutrients such as lignans, isoflavones, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Lignans can balance estrogen, whether it is an excess or a deficiency.
They are beneficial for women’s fertility by boosting the chances of conception, because they support normal ovulation and restoration of hormonal balance.
Sunflower seeds
They contain vitamin E, folate, zinc, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, they have anti-inflammatory properties and are high magnesium. This all is helpful for female but also for male fertility.
Sesame seeds are a potent source of iron calcium, and contain the highest level of protein compared to all other nuts and seeds. Most women tend to be iron deficient, that’s why adding sesame seeds into your diet is a great way to create a more fertile environment in your body. They are also packed with calcium, vitamin E, healthy fats as well as lignans similar to flax. They are relatively high in copper. This mineral acts as a precursor to estrogen.