rootCategoriesHormones
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Hormones are NEVER the ROOT CAUSE

Having hormonal imbalances is no laughing matter. It can affect almost every aspect of your life, from your physical health all the way to your mental well-being (trust me sis I’ve been there myself!). There’s nothing more frustrating than trying countless diets, supplements, and lifestyle changes, only to see little to no improvement on your hormone levels. But, what if I told you that your hormones are never really the root cause of your problems? In this blog post, we’ll explore the real culprits behind your hormonal imbalances, and how they affect your health

Causes for hormonal imbalances 

Mold toxicity

Mold is a common household problem that can have disastrous effects on your health and your hormones. High levels of mold exposure can lead to hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and even infertility. To reduce your risk of mold exposure, it’s important to keep your home clean and dry, especially in areas where mold is more likely to grow, such as bathrooms and basements.

Unresolved trauma

Trauma, whether it’s physical or emotional, can have long-lasting effects on your body and your hormones. When your body is under chronic stress, it can cause your adrenals to produce too much cortisol, leading to a host of hormonal issues. It’s important to seek support to process your trauma and reduce your stress levels.

Parasites

Parasites are more common than people realize and can lead to chronic health issues, including hormonal imbalances. Parasites can:

  • Cause inflammation
  • Disrupt gut health
  • Secrete hormones that can affect your endocrine system.

To reduce your risk of parasite exposure, wash your hands frequently, cook meat thoroughly, and avoid eating raw or undercooked foods. Parasites change the endocrine system because the immune system becomes activated when they are present; affecting the endocrine system through the influence of cellular communicators called cytokines!

Polyfluoroalkyl substances

PFCs, found in non-stick cookware and furniture, have been linked to hormonal disruptions, including thyroid disorders, early puberty, and reproductive issues. Opt for natural, environmentally-friendly products to reduce your exposure to PFCs.

Heavy metals

Heavy metals such as lead and mercury can accumulate in your body and cause a variety of health issues, including hormonal imbalances. Reduce your exposure to heavy metals by avoiding seafood with high mercury levels, using a water filter, and avoiding lead-based products.

Dysregulated nervous system

Your nervous system can play a big role in your hormonal health, as it regulates the function of your endocrine system. When your nervous system is imbalanced, it can cause hormonal disruptions, including PMS, anxiety, and even depression. Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help regulate your nervous system and improve your hormonal health.

Hormones and Viruses

Certain viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus, can affect your hormonal health, leading to conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome and autoimmunity. To reduce your risk of viral exposure, practice good hygiene, avoid sharing drinks or food, and get vaccinated when possible. Remember, hormonal imbalances are never just about your hormones. In fact, your hormones are often just the messengers of the real culprits behind your health issues. If you’re struggling with hormonal imbalances, keep in mind that a holistic approach that addresses the root causes behind your symptoms can help you achieve long-lasting health and wellness. By reducing your exposure to environmental toxins, seeking support to process your trauma, and supporting your body’s natural healing processes, you can take steps to improve your health and take control of your hormonal imbalances. Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts and reach out if you have any questions.

drainageCategoriesHormones
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Lymphatic Drainage and Hormones: A Match Made in Heaven

Wondering about lymphatic drainage and hormones? You’ve come to the right place. Ladies, let’s face it: as busy women, our hormone levels can go haywire. One day we’re feeling confident and ready to conquer the world, and the next day we’re a total mess. One of the factors that can contribute to this hormonal chaos is poor lymphatic drainage. Never heard of it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. But let me tell you, once you try it, it could be a game-changer for your hormones. 

What is lymphatic drainage?

First things first, let’s talk about what it is. Our lymphatic system is basically a network of tissues and organs that help get rid of waste and toxins from our body. When our lymphatic system is functioning properly, we feel energized and our immune system is strong. However, when our lymphatic system gets backed up, it can lead to bloating, fatigue, and inflammation – all things that can create chaos in our hormones. This is where lymphatic drainage comes in. It’s a gentle massage technique that can help stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid, thus promoting detoxification and a healthy lymphatic system. So what can you do? Read on. 

What are the benefits of lymphatic drainage for Hormone Health?

Your lymphatic system and hormonal balance go hand in hand. Lymphatic drainage can offer numerous benefits for hormone health by aiding in the removal of toxins and waste products from the body, supporting the optimal functioning of endocrine glands responsible for hormone production. By promoting lymph circulation, this technique can help reduce inflammation, improve immune function, and enhance overall detoxification processes, which are essential for hormonal balance. Additionally, lymphatic drainage may help reduce fluid retention, alleviate bloating, and support the body’s natural ability to regulate hormone levels, contributing to improved hormonal health and well-being.

Can you do lymphatic drainage at home?

Lymphatic drainage can be done both by a professional, such as a licensed massage therapist or a physical therapist, or you can do it yourself! 

Types of activities to help with lymphatic drainage – Dry brushing 

Using a dry brush, you can gently brush your skin in circular motions, starting from your feet and moving upwards towards your heart. This helps to stimulate the lymphatic fluid and get things moving. In Ayurvedic medicine, dry brushing (gharshana) has long been touted for its ability to “stimulate lymphatic flow”; I haven’t come across any research to support that but what we do know is that it is inherently promoting circulation. Better Circulation = Encourages Detoxification much in the way that exercise does! So, I think if you can use dry brushing as an additional tool to encourage detoxification then your endocrine system will thank you (laugh) for the assistance in detoxing excess hormones! Much in the way that massage can shift your nervous system OUT of a fight-flight stress response and into a rest-relax state, so can dry brushing. Add this to your stress management tool box for when you need to switch things up.

Rebounding

Another technique is the “rebounder”, where you jump on a mini trampoline. This helps to loosen up the lymphatic fluid and gets it flowing. Plus, it’s a fun way to get your heart rate up!

Self massage

Lastly, you can try a lymphatic massage for hormone regulation. Lymphatic drainage points are located throughout the body and correspond to areas where lymph nodes are clustered. Some key lymphatic drainage points include:

  1. Collarbone area: Gently massage this region to stimulate lymphatic flow from your upper body.
  2. Armpits: Lymph nodes here play a role in filtering lymph fluid from your arms and chest.
  3. Groin area: Helps with draining lymph fluid from your lower extremities.
  4. Abdomen: Gentle circular motions around your belly.
  5. Behind the knees: Helps with lymphatic drainage from your legs.

How it affects the endocrine system 

As you may know, the endocrine system is responsible for producing hormones that regulate various bodily functions. Think: 

  • Supporting the body’s detoxification processes, which can indirectly benefit the endocrine system
  • The lymphatic system is closely linked to the immune system. Lymph nodes house immune cells that help fight infections. Improving lymphatic drainage can enhance immune function.
  • Lymphatic drainage techniques, such as massage, can help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. Chronic stress can impact the endocrine system by dysregulating hormone production, particularly cortisol (the stress hormone).
  • The lymphatic system aids in circulating fluids throughout the body, including hormones produced by the endocrine glands. 

Can lymphatic drainage make you sick?

Lymphatic drainage can potentially make you feel sick, especially if you’ve had a vigorous session by a professional. Sometimes after a deep tissue massage you leave feeling worse – flu-like symptoms and dehydration with a headache (lymphatic drainage can stimulate the removal of excess fluids from the body)? The same is true for lymphatic drainage. But don’t fret. This is known as a healing crisis and is often a sign that the body is detoxifying and eliminating waste products. Be sure to maintain proper hydration before and after your session.

When is lymphatic drainage contraindicated? 

Lymphatic drainage is contraindicated in situations involving acute infections, acute inflammation like cellulitis, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) history, severe heart conditions, cancer, recent surgery, and during pregnancy without medical supervision. Always seek guidance from healthcare professionals (psst – I’m NOT your doc (WINK!)) before engaging in lymphatic drainage to ensure it is safe and appropriate for YOU.  Now, I know some of you might be thinking, “I don’t have time for this!” But let me tell you, taking just a few minutes each day to focus on lymphatic detox for hormone optimization can make a big difference! Plus, it’s a great way to practice self-care and show yourself some love. And who doesn’t need more of that? So, there you have it – the lowdown on lymphatic drainage and how it can benefit your hormones. As a hormone specialist, I cannot stress enough how important it is to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Hormonal imbalances can wreak havoc on our lives, but there are ways to combat it – and lymphatic drainage is just one of them. So, go ahead, give it a try. Your hormones (and your whole body) will thank you! Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts and reach out if you have any questions.

cortsolCategoriesHormones
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9 Polyvagal Exercises to Lower Cortisol for Busy Moms

As busy women, we often find ourselves stuck in the midst of chaos. Our days are filled with endless responsibilities and we rarely take the time to stop and take care of ourselves (it’s wrong I know we should be touting self care). Unfortunately, this lifestyle tends to lead to increased cortisol levels, which can have negative effects on our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of 9 polyvagal exercises to help lower cortisol levels and help you achieve better overall health.  

9 Polyvagal Exercises to Lower Cortisol

Shoulder shrug + release

This exercise involves lifting your shoulders up and squeezing them tightly toward your ears. Hold for a few seconds before releasing and letting them drop back down. This can help release tension in the neck and shoulders, which in turn can help lower cortisol levels.

Hum (my favorite polyvagal exercise!)

My favorite polyvagal exercise! Humming produces a vibration that stimulates the vagus nerve, which is linked to the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for relaxation. Try humming for a few minutes each day to help your body relax and lower cortisol levels.

Gargle

Gargling with warm salt water for 30 seconds can help activate the vagus nerve and stimulate the release of oxytocin, a hormone that can help lower cortisol levels.

Stretch

Stretching can be a great way to release tension in the body and lower cortisol levels. Try incorporating a few simple stretches into your daily routine, such as reaching for the sky or stretching your arms and legs.

Sing

Singing can have similar benefits to humming, as it produces vibrations that stimulate the vagus nerve. Plus, it can be a fun and uplifting way to lower cortisol levels and boost your mood.

Lay down and relax one muscle at a time from feet to head

This polyvagal exercise involves consciously tensing and then relaxing each muscle group in your body, starting with your feet and working your way up to your head. This exercise can help release tension and promote relaxation. 

Rebound (a simple and fun polyvagal exercise)

If you have access to a mini-trampoline, try rebounding for a few minutes each day. This exercise can help stimulate lymphatic flow and promote relaxation. 

Deeply breathe (in for four counts – hold for four counts – exhale for eight)

Deep breathing exercises can be a powerful tool for reducing stress and lowering cortisol levels. Try practicing this breathing exercise for a few minutes each day to promote relaxation and calmness.

Close your eyes and orient your senses (what do you hear, smell, etc)

This exercise involves taking a few minutes to focus on your senses and be present in the moment. This can help calm your mind and lower cortisol levels, leading to a greater sense of calmness and wellbeing. No matter what you’ve got going on in your life, it can be easy to neglect our own health and wellbeing. However, by practicing these 9 polyvagal exercises, we can lower our cortisol levels and achieve better overall health. Whether it’s humming, stretching, or taking a few minutes to focus on our senses, there are many simple and effective ways to promote relaxation and lower stress. So, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath and try out one of these exercises- your body and mind will thank you! Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts and reach out if you have any questions.

mysteryCategoriesHormones
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Managing the Menopause Mystery: Tips to Balance Your Hormones

Ah, the joys of being a woman – thank you menopause! We are blessed with the ability to create and nurture life, and withstand pain that can put the strongest man down. But, with great power comes great hormonal fluctuations, especially during menopause. Hot flashes, mood swings, and night sweats were not included in the brochure! It can be a confusing time, but fear not sisters, we are here to offer some tips to get your hormones under control. So put on your superhero cape and let’s conquer the menopause monster together!

Exercise

Our bodies are designed to move, and moderate exercise can do wonders for balancing hormones. Studies have shown that regular exercise can reduce hot flashes and improve mood swings during menopause. So, ditch the remote and go for a brisk walk, swim or yoga class. Exercise is not only great for your body, but it can be a stress buster too!

Eat Well

“You are what you eat” could not be truer. During this time, it’s important that we nourish our bodies with the right foods, because hormonal imbalances can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. Include foods that are rich in phytoestrogens, like soy products, flaxseed, and legumes. You can also consult your doctor to recommend a multivitamin or other supplements to make sure you are getting the right nutrients tailored to your body’s needs.

Relaxation Techniques

Life can be stressful, and adding menopause to the mix can make it even more challenging. But it’s important to de-stress and relax as much as we can. Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can have amazing effects on our health. Try some aromatherapy and hydrotherapy to soothe your mind and body. Just remember to take time for yourself, even if it’s just for a few minutes a day.

Chasteberry a.k.a. Vitex a.k.a. Vitexberry for Menopause

In addition to lifestyle modifications mentioned above, Chasteberry has been one of those ancient neutraceuticals that has been an absolute game changer in my journey towards Hormone Balance. No supplement is a “magic wand” by any stretch, but when Chasteberry was added to my hormone balancing protocol it helped me to kick my PMS to the curb and keeping my cycle regular (and seems to do the same for my patients in the seasons of perimenopause and menopause). And there’s tons of evidence to prove that Chasteberry has been used successfully for the treatment of PMS & PMDD and menstrual irregularities.  For my patients between the ages of 25-35, I recommend Chastetree by Pure Encapsulations (one cap daily). For my patients over the age of 40, I recommend Meta Balance by Thorne because it’s a combo of Vitex, Wild Yam and Black Cohosh (two caps daily).  P.S. This is your friendly reminder to consult a practitioner before starting any new supplement. 

Laughter is medicine for the soul, and it also has great effects on the body. It releases endorphins, which can reduce stress and improve mood. Watch a comedy or spend time with a friend who cracks you up. You can also join a laughter yoga class or try laughter therapy. Remember, laughter is contagious, so spread the joy wherever you go.

Scroll my IG 

Seriously. There are so many hormone hacks on my IG and many of them can help with menopause. Check it out if you don’t already follow me! By taking care of our bodies and minds, we can balance our hormones and enjoy the rest of our lives full of energy and vitality. Remember, we women are superheroes and we can conquer anything if we put our minds to it! So, go ahead and embrace the menopause mystery with all its quirks and challenges. Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts and reach out if you have any questions.

EndometriosisCategoriesHormones
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Endometriosis: The Science Behind Hormone Imbalances

Ladies, we all know the struggles of monthly periods and the hormonal roller coaster that comes with it. But have you ever heard of endometriosis? I bet you have because so many of you DM me about it on the gram! It’s a common medical condition affecting millions of women worldwide. This disorder occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus (endometrium) grows outside of it, causing severe pain and discomfort. As a hormone specialist, I believe education is the key to managing and treating hormonal imbalances, including endometriosis. So, let’s dive into the science behind this disorder and how hormones play a crucial role in it.

What causes Endometriosis?

The exact cause of endometriosis is still not fully understood. However, several factors play a role such as:

  • Genetics
  • Immune system
  • Environmental and lifestyle factors
  • Stress
  • Hormonal imbalances

In particular, estrogen dominance is a primary culprit in endometriosis. Excess estrogen levels can cause the growth of tissue outside the uterus, leading to severe pain and inflammation during the menstrual cycle. The imbalance between estrogen and progesterone also affects the lining of the uterus. This makes it more vulnerable to the growth of endometrial tissue outside of it.

How is Endometriosis diagnosed?

Endometriosis can be challenging to diagnose, and the only way to confirm it is through laparoscopic surgery. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. Some common symptoms associated with endometriosis include:

  • Severe menstrual cramps
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Infertility

What are the treatment options for Endometriosis?

There is no cure for endometriosis, but several treatment options can help manage pain and improve infertility. Hormone therapy, such as birth control pills, IUDs, or the insertion of a hormonal implant, can regulate estrogen levels and reduce inflammation in the lining of the uterus. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

How to manage Endometriosis naturally

As a hormone specialist, I highly recommend lifestyle modifications to manage endometriosis naturally. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation may help control symptoms. Additionally, supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium have been found to reduce inflammation, improve hormone balance and relieve pain. Consulting with a functional medicine practitioner can also help address the root cause of hormonal imbalances that lead to endometriosis.

Stay with me for more, sis!

Endometriosis is a complex and painful medical condition that affects millions of women worldwide. While there is no cure, knowing the science behind it and the role of hormones can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you are struggling, I encourage you to take an integrative approach to treatment by adopting lifestyle modifications and seeking medical care to address hormonal imbalances. Let’s break the silence around this condition and empower women to take charge of their hormonal health. Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts and reach out if you have any questions.

stressCategoriesHormones Stress
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My Journey as a REFORMED 5 am Spinner

From High Stress to Self-Regulation

Today, I want to share with you my personal journey as a reformed 5 am spinner (IYKYK). For many years, I had been living a fast-paced, high-stress lifestyle as a corporate worker in New York City. To keep up, I attended daily spinning classes at 5 am. I only fueled myself with coffee, an apple, and a salad for lunch. I never missed a workout. However, I eventually discovered I had hormone imbalances and high cortisol levels. I didn’t improve my well-being until I learned to self-regulate and lower my stress. This changed how I related to people through self-regulation.

Stress of The Corporate Rat Race

As someone who loves a good rush, the NYC corporate rat race was a match for my personality. However, it took me decades to realize that I had been running around with high stress levels. Eventually, this led to various health issues. Unfortunately, many of us are in the same boat. The constant rush to keep up with our daily tasks and responsibilities takes a toll on our bodies and minds. We find ourselves in a dysregulated state. We’re always stressed out and never fully present. Little did I realize at the time, I was lacking the tools necessary to self-regulate.  But here’s the good news: You can have a high-energy lifestyle and  maintain self-regulation at the same time. You don’t have to be trapped in a state of stress and dysregulation. I gave myself one of the greatest gifts by learning to self-regulate. I lowered my cortisol levels. It has changed how I relate to people, especially those who matter most to me.

Learning The Value of Self-Regulation

So, how did I begin to self-regulate? Simple. I started by paying attention to my body’s signals and taking breaks when I needed them. I now incorporate meditation, yoga, and mindfulness practices into my daily routine. I also prioritize restful sleep. I make sure to eat a nutrient-rich diet to support my body’s natural processes. Self-care is no longer a luxury but a necessity. I also learned the importance of social support. I discovered the value of surrounding myself with like-minded people. I now attend group fitness classes that bring joy and fun into my life. I seek the company of friends who uplift me, and I prioritize my social connections. I also do everything in my power to ensure I am maintaining a life of self-regulation. At the end of the day, changing my high-stress, dysregulated lifestyle to a self-regulated, balanced one was not easy. It took time and effort, but the result was life-changing.  The key takeaway here is that we don’t have to accept chronic stress and dysregulation as a way of life. We have the power to choose a healthier way of living, one that supports our body, mind, and spirit. We all deserve a life of self-regulation. So, if you’re feeling stressed or burnt out, remember that there is hope. You can start by taking small steps towards self-care. Find a supportive community that aligns with your values. Your body and mind will thank you for it! Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts and reach out if you have any questions.

cortisolCategoriesHormones Mental Health
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Constantly Stressed? You Might Be Running on High Cortisol

Running on High Cortisol, Sis? Read this.

Do you find yourself struggling to relax or feeling constantly stressed? Do you turn to unhealthy habits to cope with your day-to-day life? If so, you may be dealing with the effects of high cortisol levels. Your body produces a hormone called “cortisol” in response to stress. When cortisol levels remain elevated for extended periods, it can lead to a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. These may include anxiety, depression, weight gain, and more. If you’re feeling the effects of high cortisol, it’s important to take a step back and recognize what’s happening. 

Change the Venue

One simple strategy to manage cortisol levels is to remove yourself from the stressful environment. If you find yourself overwhelmed at work, tell your boss you need to take five minutes to cool down. If you are your own boss, be kind to yourself and take that five-minute break. Take a quick walk, grab a cup of tea, or simply find a quiet place to sit and breathe. Remember, stress can be contagious. Leaving a tense environment, even for just a few minutes, can give you the necessary mindset to get back to work with a calm and focused mind (easier said than done, I know!). 

Engage your Vagus Nerve

Your vagus nerve runs through your body, connecting various organs and systems. This nerve is responsible for influencing your heart rate, digestion, and more. Engaging the vagus nerve can effectively calm your body, providing a counterbalance to stress. One easy way to activate your vagus nerve is to place your hand over your heart and inhale deeply, expanding your rib cage. Hold your breath for a moment, and then exhale slowly. Repeat this exercise for a few minutes and feel the calming effect.

Self Regulate

Self-regulation can be a powerful way to reduce stress and control cortisol levels. Understanding how to self-regulate and lower cortisol has been one of the greatest gifts I gave myself. It has literally changed how I relate to people and most importantly how I SHOW UP to the people who matter most. We know from the Polyvagal Theory created by Dr. Stephen Porges that our nervous system, physiological responses, and emotional responses intertwine which is why breathwork, humming, gargling, singing, rebounding, bouncing and vibrating work. l love combining breathwork with Lime Essential Oil because I immediately feel uplifted and I know using EO’s can get a little “woo-woo” for some us but thankfully there’s research to back up why this combo works (PMID: 37175176; PMID: 36552586). If breathwork isn’t your thing – diffuse your favorite citrus essential oil while you bounce or vibrate. Just make sure whatever essential oil you choose is therapeutic grade and organic, if possible.

You are not Alone

You can reduce stress and control cortisol levels by implementing simple strategies. You can also build resilience. Be kind to yourself. Take necessary breaks. Remind yourself that self-care isn’t selfish but essential for a healthy, fulfilling life. Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts, follow me on Instagram and reach out if you have any questions.

caloriesCategoriesHormones Weight Loss
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Cutting Calories May Not Always Result in Weight Loss

In my functional diagnostic medicine practice we get a ton of patients expressing their desire to lose weight. But the truth of it is when you regain your HEALTH – weight loss is the bonus. It’s never too late to reset. Let’s set the intention to elevate the quality of your overall health by analyzing your challenges NOW including your hormones. And who knows – you might even lose a little weight in the process. Did you know three hormones, when dysregulated, may prevent weight loss?? Keep reading, sis…

Cortisol

This hormone is commonly known as the stress hormone. I’m sure you’ve heard of it! It is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. When cortisol levels are high (due to chronic stress), it can lead to an increase in appetite and belly fat. Moreover, cutting calories may be perceived as a severe stressor to the body. This can lead to even more cortisol production. This increased cortisol production can, in turn, undermine weight loss efforts. To regulate cortisol levels, try stress-relieving techniques like meditation, exercise, or therapy. 

Insulin

Insulin is another hormone that comes into play when it comes to weight loss. When cortisol is released, it signals the release of glucose. This triggers the release of insulin into the bloodstream. High insulin levels and insulin resistance can lead to excess sugar being stored as fat. Even if you are cutting back on calories, it’s still essential to regulate your insulin levels. Intermittent fasting, low-carb diets, and increasing your consumption of fiber-rich foods can help.

Estrogen

The female sex hormone estrogen plays a vital role in weight regulation. High estrogen levels or a high ratio of estrogen to progesterone can lead to excessive fat storage. A woman needs a certain amount of body fat to be fertile. However, this cycle can extend beyond diet changes. Fat-producing estrogen signals fat storage mechanisms. Balancing your estrogen levels through lifestyle changes can be a long-term solution. 

There’s more to weight loss than cutting calories

Remember, hormonal imbalances can undermine even the most stringent diet and exercise routines!! Understanding the role of these hormones is essential. It’s also important to know the steps needed to bring them back into balance. So, if you are struggling with weight loss, don’t give up hope!

But P.S. Here’s a secret to try

All that being said, if I had to share one thing that I do daily and recommend to patients it is to turn on your internal fat burner while you sleep. Leptin is a hormone secreted by fat cells that regulates fat storage. If you want to burn fat instead if store it, you have to increase your “Leptin Sensitivity” and you have to increase your protein intake. Personally, I end the day with about 24 grams of low-calorie protein. Not only does this improve the quality of my sleep, but gets me (and a lot of my patients) results. Consuming slow-burning carbs earlier in the day and protein at night supports healthy blood sugar levels and has a dramatic effect on cravings. Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts, follow me on Instagram and reach out if you have any questions.

green teaCategoriesHormones
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Why We Should Be Drinking Green Tea For Balanced Hormones

There’s Plenty of Evidence to Prove Why We Should Be Drinking Green Tea for Balanced Hormones, Boo!

Ladies, let’s talk hormones! Hormone balance is extremely important for overall health (as I hope you know by now!). As women, it can be a complicated issue. But fear not, as there is an easy and delicious solution to balance your hormones: green tea! Yes, it’s true; this ancient beverage has numerous benefits that can help keep your hormones (and stress) in check. Here are four main reasons why drinking it is essential for balanced hormones.

Lowers Cortisol (The Stress Hormone)

We all experience stress in our daily lives, but did you know that stress can have a significant impact on our hormones? Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which supports a healthy stress response. When we are stressed, our cortisol levels can spike, leading to anxiety, mood swings, and even weight gain. But by drinking green tea, we can lower our cortisol levels, helping us to feel more relaxed and at ease.

Lowers Testosterone 

Testosterone is essential for both men and women, but too much of it can cause unwanted side effects, such as acne, hair growth, and infertility. Green tea is loaded with antioxidants and can increase the hormone SHBG, which binds up excess testosterone in the body. By drinking green tea, we can help balance out our hormones and keep testosterone levels in check.

Lowers Estrogen 

Estrogen is another hormone that can cause issues when it’s imbalanced. The polyphenols in green tea can influence the enzymes that metabolize Estrogen. This is good for helping to keep estrogen levels at a healthy range. This is also great news for women who are experiencing estrogen dominance. A few examples of this could be weight gain, mood swings, and irregular periods.

Burns Fat 

Green tea has been shown to speed up the rate at which our bodies break down fats. This process is called thermogenesis. Thermogenesis shows that by drinking green tea, we can help our bodies burn more calories. Not only that, but the antioxidants in green tea can also help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Overall, consuming this drink is an excellent way to support your hormone health. But not all green tea is created equal. It’s important to choose high-quality green tea. A brand I like to use is Pique. This brand is organic and mold-free, ensuring that you get all the benefits of green tea without the harmful additives. So, ladies, let’s raise a cup of green tea to help with hormone balance and all the amazing benefits it provides! Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts and reach out if you have any questions.

bodybutterCategoriesD.I.Y Remedies Skin Health
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Making Your Own Body Butter is Stupid Simple

If you’re anything like me, you’re always searching for natural, non-toxic skincare products that work. And let’s face it – finding ones that don’t break the bank is another challenge. But what if I told you that making your own ultra-luxe body butter is not only stupidly simple but also good for your skin, customizable, and affordable? Yes, babe. You reard that right! Here is my go-to recipe for my LUXE Body Butter. It will leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and smelling amazing. Plus, I’ll share some of my favorite essential oil blends for different moods. 

Let’s Get Buttering!

First things first, let’s talk about why this body butter recipe is a game-changer. Shea butter, mango butter, and coconut oil are all-natural, nutrient-rich ingredients known for their moisturizing and healing properties. Unlike commercial lotions that are often filled with chemical additives, preservatives, and fragrances, this recipe only uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are safe and nourishing. Plus, you can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite essential oils. How cool is that?!

The Simple Method

Now, let’s talk about the method. You’ll need a double-boiler, which you can make simply by placing a heatproof bowl on top of a pot of simmering water. Here’s how to make it: 

  • In the bowl, combine 1/2 cup of shea butter, 1/2 cup of mango butter, and 1/2 cup of coconut oil.
  • You can adjust the amounts of each ingredient based on your preference, but I find this ratio works well.
  • Melt everything together, stirring occasionally, until you get a smooth and liquid consistency.
  • At this point, you can add 20-30 drops of your favorite essential oils if you choose to.
  • Some of my favorites are lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree, depending on what I am in the mood for.
  • Stir well to combine.
  • Next, transfer the mixture to a glass container.
  • Refrigerate for about an hour or until it solidifies.
  • Once it’s cooled and hardened, simply take it out of the fridge and use a hand-held beater or a stand mixer to whip it up until it becomes light and fluffy. This may take 5-10 minutes, depending on how creamy you want it to be. Be patient and keep beating until it gets the texture you desire.
  • Then, voila! You’ve made your own luxurious body butter that’s ready to use- it is that simple!

A Few of My Favorite Blends

Finally, let’s talk about some of my favorite essential oil blends to add to this recipe. One that I’m currently loving is called Winter Wonderland, which includes 10 drops of White Fir, 10 drops of peppermint, and 10 drops of Vanilla. This blend is perfect for the holiday season or whenever you want a cozy and warm scent that’s both refreshing and sweet. Another blend I enjoy is Fresh & Sweet, which consists of 10 drops of Grapefruit and 10 drops of Ylang Ylang. This one is great for a pick-me-up or when you need a mood boost. If you like lighter scents, you can simply add a few drops of whatever oil you like best. Of course, you can experiment with your own combinations and find what works for you.  So, there you have it. Making your own LUXE Body Butter is stupidly simple, affordable, and fun. Not only will you know exactly what goes into your skincare products, but you’ll also have the freedom to customize them to your own liking. Plus, it makes a great gift for your loved ones, or it can be a fun and simple craft to do with your kids. I hope you give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out for you. And if you want more hormone hacks like this, be sure to let me know in the comments! Here’s to nourishing your skin and body in the most natural way possible. Don’t forget to explore more of my blog posts and reach out if you have any questions.