Many safe, proven supplements can help you balance hormones naturally in conjunction with lifestyle changes. 

Dr. Sara Gottfried, MD recommends a “food first” philosophy: get what you need from food, and only if you can’t, rely on supplements. You can learn more about her “food first” policies in one of her latest books: The Brain Body Diet. 

You need the foundation of nutrient-dense whole foods and restorative sleep. Do not eat processed foods or refined carbohydrates, which can make adrenal problems worse. 

These additional foods and supplements can help fill nutritional gaps and balance hormones for all ages:

Tip # 1: Brazil nuts 

Brazil nuts provide 100% of the recommended daily allowance of selenium, which you need to keep your thyroid happy. Five to six Brazil nuts per day is just right.

Tip #2: Oysters 

They provide the copper you need to boost your thyroid and testosterone levels. If oysters are not your thing, try cashews for the dose of zinc and iron.

Tip #3: Omega 3s 

Eat 2 to 3 servings of wild-caught fish every week. In between your “fish” days, take a high-quality supplement. One study indicated that men and women who took 4,000 mg (4 grams) of fish oil a day for six weeks lowered morning cortisol levels to healthier levels and got leaner. Choose a form of fish oil that has been tested by a third party, is free of mercury, and other endocrine disruptors. 

Omega Love is formulated to provide advanced support for immune, joint health and your cardiovascular system. These softgels are packed with EPA-DHA and a purified form of omega-3 fatty acids in triglyceride form, for maximum absorption in your body. 

Tip #4: Maca 

The magical herb maca (Lepidum meyenii) has consistently been shown to increase estradiol in menopausal. Maca helps with insomnia, depression, memory, concentration, energy, hot flashes, and vaginal dryness. Maca also improves body mass index and bone density. I love adding Maca to my morning shake. Don’t take it too close to bedtime as it may be too stimulating. 

Tip #5: Vitamin B5

Stress-crazed? Also known as pantothenic acid, B5 reduces the hypersecretion of cortisol in people under high stress, and it is a low-risk treatment. If you’re chronically stressed, ask your doctor how to determine your correct dosage. Dr. Sara Gottfried, MD recommends taking 500 mg/day.

Don’t needlessly let your hormones run wild. Take control today!