5 Foods & Drinks That Are Actually Very BAD For Your Hormones

by Maria Konou
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In order to be in good health, we need to have a good hormonal balance in our bodies. And, in order to maintain it, it is important to eat healthily, exercise regularly, not take supplements without consulting a doctor. We also need to check our blood sugar and insulin levels regularly, as well as other hormones, if necessary, and most importantly to reduce stress. Very often, our daily routine depends on our hormonal imbalance, especially for women. For example, we might feel more stressed, fatigued, not focused, and irritable. These are just some of the symptoms of hormonal imbalance. With so many fluctuating hormones every day, it is super important to do whatever is in our power to keep healthy! That is why, in this article, we will show you five common foods that are actually bad for your hormones!

Let’s see which common foods are actually very bad for women’s hormones

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Foods That Are Actually Bad For Your Hormones

#Sugary foods and drinks

This is one of the worst food choices when it comes to our health and hormonal balance. When we consume sugar, it causes insulin levels in the body to spike drastically. Insulin is a hormone that is responsible for metabolizing the sugar we consume. Frequent snacking on sugary treats and drinking beverages with added sugar leads to suppression of leptin and ghrelin sensitivity. Both these hormones signal satiety and control appetite. Take note, when you eat a waffle or some pancakes, don’t you feel hungry very soon after? What’s more, regular consumption of sweets increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Sugar is also one of the foods that bad bacteria like candida absolutely love! That is why sugary foods and drinks also make you more prone to vaginal infections.

Sugary foods and drinks are the worst food choice when it comes to health and hormonal balance

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When we consume sugar, it causes insulin levels in the body to spike drastically

foods that are bad for hormones

Drinking beverages with added sugar leads to suppression of leptin and ghrelin sensitivity

what foods are bad for your hormones

#Processed and refined foods

Gluten and sugar are the worst combinations for anyone. They both increase inflammation in the body and stress the adrenal glands, increasing susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. Gluten is found in most waffles, crackers, cookies, oatmeal, and grains that contain it, as well as bread and baked goods. Not only do we gain weight from them, but they make us prone to hormonal imbalances that occur in our bodies. Sausages and cured meats also belong to processed foods, which contain a lot of preservatives, and sodium.

Gluten and sugar are the worst combinations for anyone, especially women

foods that are bad for women's hormones

These foods both increase inflammation in the body and stress the adrenal glands

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#Soya products

Soy milk, tofu, and other forms of soy are good to consume in small quantities occasionally. Some Western studies have linked their frequent consumption with an increased risk of serious diseases such as cancer. This is because soy is chemically similar to estrogen in its structure. According to some Western studies, frequent consumption of soy products can lead to thyroid problems as well as negatively affect ovulation, scientists believe. HOWEVER, if you are a woman that struggles with low estrogen levels, soya products are just the thing for you! So, if you want to increase your estrogen levels, include these foods in your diet.

Soy milk, tofu, and other forms of soy are good to consume in small quantities occasionally

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However, if you struggle with low estrogen, soya products are very helpful

what foods are bad for hormones

#Dairy products

Dairy products act on different levels, disrupting your hormonal balance like no other. Conventional dairy products, especially fresh milk, can cause inflammation in the gut and body. It is even thought that fresh milk may contain recombinant bovine growth hormone. One sign that you are not tolerating dairy is various gut issues, as well as a noticeable change in your skin condition. It can become flabby, and more oily, and you get pimples more often. Milk contains IGF-1, which is a growth hormone. Too much of it causes inflammation and an increase in insulin, which causes the liver to produce even more growth hormone. Excess IGF-1 can lead to an increased risk of diabetes and elevated triglycerides, research suggests. Here are some surprising benefits of cutting out dairy!

Dairy products act on different levels, disrupting your hormonal balance like no other

foods that are bad for your hormones

Conventional dairy products, especially fresh milk, can cause inflammation in the gut and body

what foods to avoid for hormonal imbalance

#Alcohol

It turns out that alcoholic beverages can actually lead to problems with insulin synthesis and an imbalance of sex hormones in the body. That is especially true for testosterone, scientists say. Alcohol affects the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which are the most important areas for hormone synthesis in the brain. It reduces fertility in both men and women. Regular alcohol consumption increases levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone. However, if a person stops alcohol even for a month, it can significantly improve his condition.

Alcohol can lead to problems with insulin synthesis and an imbalance of sex hormones 

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Hormonal Balance Basics

These were the most common foods and drinks that are actually super bad for your hormones. The key to hormonal balance is balance itself! Don’t stress yourself out too much, and don’t spend hours on your phone. Also, don’t deprive yourself of sugar and carbs and then binge late at night. Do the things you love and the things that make you happy, but be mindful and strive for a healthy balance. Make sure to manage stress and sleep, because these might be even more important than nutrition. Try to get at least eight hours of good sleep every night, even on days when all you want to do is binge-watch your favorite TV show. Below, we will share some more valuable tips for optimal gut health and hormonal balance!

Here are the basics of hormonal balance, especially in women

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A balanced lifestyle and rich-dense foods are all you need in your hormonal journey

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Also, look into nutrition for the different phases of your menstrual cycle

what foods are bad for female hormones

Your plate should be colorful, balanced, abundant, and fun!

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Maria Konou

Maria Konou is a specialist in the field of digital marketing and fashion. However, she has always had a way with words. That’s what led her to her dream job here at Archzine. She has worked in many different fields over the years, but according to her, being an author has been the most rewarding. Maria is a huge plant enthusiast, loves everything fashion-related, is very sustainably aware, and is always open to learning about new things.