Seed Cycling for Hormonal Balance: A Recipe

 May 10, 2024 | Dr. Silvana Jakupovic, ND

What is Seed Cycling?

Seed cycling is a holistic approach to balancing hormones and supporting women's health by incorporating specific seeds into the diet at different phases of the menstrual cycle. This practice of natural hormone therapy, deeply rooted in the belief of food as medicine, has gained popularity as a natural method to alleviate hormonal imbalances and related issues. 

The process involves consuming flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds during the follicular phase (the first day of menstruation until ovulation) and switching to sesame seeds and sunflower seeds for the luteal phase (from ovulation to the start of menstruation). 

The follicular phase focuses on seeds rich in phytoestrogens and zinc. Flaxseeds, high in lignans, are known for modulating estrogen levels, potentially alleviating symptoms of estrogen dominance, such as PMS and irregular cycles. Pumpkin seeds, abundant in zinc, support reproductive health and the immune system. Zinc plays a crucial role in hormone production and regulation, which can enhance fertility and energy levels.

During the luteal phase, the emphasis shifts to seeds that support progesterone levels. Sesame seeds, loaded with lignans and essential fatty acids, can help balance hormones and reduce inflammation. Sunflower seeds are a rich source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that can improve progesterone production, thus aiding in hormonal balance and reducing PMS symptoms.

Though scientific research on seed cycling is limited, anecdotal evidence suggests it may improve menstrual regularity, alleviate PMS and PCOS symptoms, boost fertility, and enhance overall well-being. By promoting a natural rhythm and providing essential nutrients, seed cycling embodies a gentle way to support hormonal health.

Seed Cycling Recipe

The following recipe, written by Leah Brueggemann, can be used for simplifying seed cycling: 

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups of shredded coconut
• 1 cup of nut butter of choice 
• 1 tsp of Redmond's or celtic sea salt
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 1 cup of your ground seed blend for that phase 
• 3.5 tsp of your mushroom blend for that phase 
• 1 bar of dark chocolate chopped up
• ⅓ cup of honey

DIRECTIONS

Combine all of the ingredients and mold into balls, then refrigerate.

Size the balls so that each batch lasts 7 days; you will get the appropriate amount of seeds and mushroom blend daily.

You may need to play around with how much nut butter you put in to nail the texture.