My Journey to Hormonal Balance: How Nutrition Changed Everything
We are constantly bombarded with conflicting advice about health and wellness in our world. There are countless diets to choose from, numerous exercise programs to follow, and an overwhelming number of experts claiming to have the answers. A few years ago, I found myself lost in this sea of information, struggling with hormonal imbalances and poor nutrition that were impacting every aspect of my life. Living in Dubai at the time, I was surrounded by an incredibly competitive fitness culture. Everywhere I looked, women were lifting heavy weights, running marathons, trying every sport out there, and pushing themselves to the limit. I wanted to be part of it all, so I did everything I thought was right. I ran 10Ks twice a week, lifted heavy weights 5 times a week, ate my greens, and got my 7-8 hours of sleep, But despite all my efforts, something was off. My body wasn’t right, and I didn’t feel right. Every morning, I woke up feeling tired, dragging myself to the gym, feeling anxious and stressed out for no reason. I saw doctors and did glucose tests, but everything came out perfectly.
Then I stopped getting my period and ended up at the gynecologist, who diagnosed me with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). I followed her advice and started treatment, but a year later, after seeking help from several medical professionals in Spain, I was told I was misdiagnosed. I did not have PCOS. My medicine was the following: loading on complex carbs and good fats. I was over training and not providing my body with the energy it needed. It was as simple as that. It was a revelation that changed my life.
Looking back on my journey to optimal health and wellness, I realize now how misguided my approach was. I used to believe that cutting back on carbs and fats while exercising more was the key to success. But it was exactly the opposite. By depriving my body of the nutrients, it needed, I was causing my hormones to spiral out of control and leading me to several sports injuries that required surgery. It was a brutal cycle that left me feeling exhausted, anxious, and frustrated. But I refused to give up.
With a new perspective, I began prioritizing whole, nutritious foods to fuel my body and promote balance. The results were transformative. My energy levels skyrocketed, my mood brightened, and my body finally functioned optimally. I found myself lifting heavier, my skin was glowing, my emotions shifting, and even my sleep improving. My period was back to normal. Though I gained a few pounds, I was ecstatic because I felt happier and healthier than ever. I no longer obsessed over having perfect abs, but rather focused on feeling good from the inside out.
Through my own personal journey, I’ve come to realize the importance of proper nutrition for overall health and wellness. It’s not about following the latest fad diet or counting calories. It’s about giving our bodies what they truly need to function optimally. And if you’re struggling with hormonal imbalances or poor nutrition like I once was, don’t give up hope. Take the time to learn about what your body needs and invest in yourself. Invest in proper education and consultation. The rewards are truly priceless. In fact, I became so passionate about proper nutrition that I even pursued certifications in fitness and health to help others on their own journeys.
If you’re struggling with hormonal imbalances due to poor nutrition, there are steps you can take to help get your hormones back in balance:
Incorporate healthy fats into your diet: Healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids can help support healthy hormone levels. Good sources of healthy fats include fatty fish, avocados, nuts, and seeds.
Eat whole, nutrient-dense foods: Processed foods are often lacking in important nutrients that our bodies need to function properly. Focus on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Balance your blood sugar: Fluctuations in blood sugar can lead to hormonal imbalances. To help balance your blood sugar, eat frequent, small meals throughout the day, and focus on eating fiber-rich foods.
Get enough sleep: Sleep plays a critical role in hormone regulation. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help keep your hormones in balance.
Manage stress: Stress can have a negative impact on hormone levels. Incorporate stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine.
“Man is What He Eats” – Lucretius.
Looking back on my journey, I realize how much I’ve learned about the importance of nutrition and how it impacts every aspect of our lives. It’s not just about losing weight or looking good, it’s about feeling good and performing at our best.
If you’re struggling with hormonal imbalances or other health issues, I encourage you to consider the role that nutrition may be playing in your symptoms. Making changes to your diet and lifestyle can be difficult, but it’s worth it in the end. And remember, everyone’s journey is different. Don’t compare yourself to others, just focus on making progress and taking care of your body.
In the end, my journey to hormonal balance was a difficult one, but it was also a transformative one. I learned to listen to my body and give it the nourishment it needs to function at its best. And that’s a lesson that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Your body is not just a mere machine, it’s a temple that deserves to be treated with utmost love, respect, and care. Don’t be afraid to take the necessary steps to achieve optimal health and wellness. Your future self will be eternally grateful for the investment you make today. Remember, every positive change you make brings you one step closer to living your best life.