Balancing hormones is one of my favorite topics, and a great natural way to do so is through Seed Cycling. Seed cycling is a natural, and gentle way to improve PMS, irregular periods, PCOS, and painful periods. By simply rotating specific seeds that contain vital vitamins, nutrients, and fatty acids it is believed to support hormonal function.
Here's how this food first method works:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Follicular Phase (Day 1-14): Flaxseed & Pumpkin seeds are recommended to naturally boost estrogen while simultaneously providing fiber to promote estrogen metabolism. These seeds are a good source of magnesium, which reduces the prostaglandins that cause painful periods. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Luteal Phase (Day 15-onset of bleed): Sunflower & Sesame seeds are thought to support our progesterone levels, which increase during the second half of our cycle. Both are high in zinc, and zinc has been shown to be low during this phase.
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𝑰𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒔𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒄 𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒚𝒄𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈?
No, only research has been completed on the seeds in isolation & most reports of seed cycling is anecdotal. ⠀
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As with everything, we are individuals. What works for one person, may or may not work for another.
I recommend keeping track of your cycle using apps like @clueapp, or old-school pen & paper. Seed cycling may take up to 2-3 cycles to notice a difference so keep that in mind.
Since both sesame seeds, and sunflower nut butter are included in this recipe - these energy bites are fantastic for the luteal phase, or second half of your menses.
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P U M P K I N S U N F L O W E R N U T B U T T E R E N E R G Y B I T E S
I N G R E D I E N T S
1/4 cup Coconut Flour (Bob's Red Mill)
1.5 tbsp Coconut Oil (melted)
1/4 cup Pureed Pumpkin 2 tbsp Sunflower Nut Butter 1 tbsp Maple Syrup
1/4 tsp Cinnamon 2 tbsp Sesame Seeds
D I R E C T I O N S
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the coconut flour, coconut oil, and pureed pumpkin. Mix thoroughly.
Add tahini, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Continue to mix until well combined. The mixture should be very doughy and stiff.
Roll dough into small balls. Pour sesame seeds onto a small plate and roll each ball in the seeds to coat.
Cover and store in the fridge for up to 5 days, or the freezer for a month.
