Women are using nature’s goodness to their advantage on ‘fertile grounds’ via seed cycling. For the uninitiated, it is a dietary practice that involves eating a variety of seeds during the menstrual cycle – sunflower, sesame, pumpkin, flaxseed, chia to improve hormonal balance and boost fertility.
Seed Cycling Fad
Women usually have a 28-30 day menstrual cycle. Out of these 28-30 days, the initial days, (Day 1-14) have the Follicular Phase. The next that follows is from Days 15-28 which has the Luteal phase. “Seed cycling involves eating different seeds during each phase of the menstrual cycle to help balance hormones,” says dietician Dharshini. S, Nutritionist & Lifestyle Consultant, Founder of Swahaara.
It is important to know what seeds should be consumed during the two phases. Dharshini says, “For the period between Day 1-14, flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds (preferably 1 tbsp) should be consumed that helps support estrogen production.” During the Luteal phase, consuming sunflower and sesame seeds helps.
Shweta Anish Shah, Owner & Founder of Eatfit27, Health & Wellness Coach & Celebrity Nutri-tionist says, “This fluctuating rhythm (shift between Follicular phase to luteal phase) helps the body work in sync with its natural hormonal flow.” Women above 18, should incorporate seeds in their dietary intake.
Storehouse of Benefits
Shweta explains, “Many women may find it useful as it helps ease PMS, reduces period pain and improves period flow, even supporting overall fertility.” Certain seeds may also affect hormones as they contain phytoestrogens, plant compounds that in many ways mimic estrogen. One may find th
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