Energy levels and hormones (besties or frenemies?)
The clock is ticking: it’s time to unlock your (full) energy potential by taking charge of your hormones. That’s right. Although often overlooked, female hormones and energy levels are closely connected. While fluctuating energy levels negatively impact female hormones, the same holds true from the other perspective. Imbalanced hormones result in an energetic roller coaster. A wild, exhausting ride.
Hormones are like an orchestra
When it comes to regulating energy levels, mood, and other bodily functions, hormones sit center stage. They play a crucial role in regulating energy levels, mood, and more. Like an orchestra in the body, each hormone helps maintain harmony and balance. Just as a symphony needs every instrument to play its part to create beautiful music, the body needs each hormone to work in tandem. When one hormone is out of tune, it can throw off the entire system. In other words, when hormones are out of whack, energy levels take a hit.
How lifestyle and diet impact energy
When we don't get enough sleep, exercise too little (or too much), or when we consume foods that constantly spike our blood sugar, our energy levels fluctuate. This can lead to imbalances in hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. As you know, this trio is responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle. However, these hormones also influence mood, energy levels, cravings, and more.
Female hormones and energy: a two-way street
For context, when energy levels are low, the body typically produces higher levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, which can affect the balance of other hormones in the body. This can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, decreased libido, and a tired-but-wired brain.
On the other hand, imbalances in female hormones can also impact energy levels. For example, women with low levels of thyroid hormone may experience fatigue and low energy levels. This can also affect other hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, leading to menstrual irregularities and other symptoms.
How to prevent energy spikes and crashes
To prevent imbalances, you need to care of both your energy levels and your hormones. They’re equally important. This means getting enough sleep (7-9 hours), exercising regularly, eating a balanced and nutritious diet, and managing stress levels. More specifically:
-
Balance your meals:
Eating balanced meals with a mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates can help prevent energy spikes and crashes. Our seed cycling blends have protein, fat and fiber to help keep your blood sugar levels stable! -
Stay hydrated:
Dehydration can lead to fatigue and sluggishness, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day and more if you are physically active or in a hot environment. -
Get enough sleep:
Lack of sleep can wreak havoc on your energy levels. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night and stick to a regular sleep schedule as much as possible. -
Move your body:
Exercise is a natural energy booster, so try to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Even a quick walk around the block can help refresh your mind and body. -
Manage stress:
Chronic stress can drain your energy levels, so it's important to find healthy ways to manage stress. Try techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to help reduce stress and maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.
It's also important to work with a healthcare provider to monitor hormone levels and address any imbalances that may be present!
Energizing whole foods
What is one of the best ways to feel more energized and balanced? Incorporating more whole foods into your diet! I.e. berries, leafy greens, zucchini, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, lean protein, and healthy fats (avocado, coconut, olives, etc.). These all provide essential fuel that support hormonal balance and boost energy levels
As you add more whole foods to your plate, you’ll automatically crowd out ultra-processed foods, sugar, and inflammatory ingredients. Start by making small changes to your diet, like swapping out a processed protein bar for 1-2 dates stuffed with nut butter and hemp seeds.
Want a double-dose of energy? Enjoy your snack outside in the sunshine, then walk a few blocks around your neighborhood for fresh air and blood sugar balance. Win, win, win.
Energy givers vs. energy takers
We are all energetic beings, vibrating at a certain frequency. And when we can begin connecting with our own vibration, we can create beautiful change within our lives. In other words, it’s possible to shift your energy to match the energy you wish to bring in your life. You can do this through meditation, mindfulness, prayer, and even nutrient-dense foods! All of these are energy givers. On the flip side, the world is full of energy drainers. Let this be a reminder to make space for the things that give you energy and set boundaries around the things that don’t.
As a journal exercise, what are your energy givers? What are your energy drainers? Examples of givers: sunlight, laughter, cuddles with a pet, visualization, reading, and sleep. Examples of drainers: people-pleasing, overthinking, doom scrolling on social media, dehydration, and going-going-going without rest.
We love hearing about your experiences with beeya!
Is it magic or the power of organic whole-food nutrition? Learn more about seed cycling here.