Admit it. You've tried dieting to lose weight. But what if those "diet" foods are part of the problem? Try these 10 foods, instead, to balance hormones and then see what happens.
Unfortunately, even if you're exercising and eating a well-balanced diet, unbalanced hormones can sabotage your goal to lose weight. Did you know your body's hormones help control everything from your metabolism to fat storage? On top of that, hormone-disrupting chemicals may be hiding in your household cleaners, laundry detergent, shampoo, and even your air fresheners. So you need to fight back!
Try these 10 foods that balance hormones to help you stay healthy and lose fat!
1. Avocados
Yes, avocados! Avocados contain beta-sitosterol, a substance which works wonders for weight loss. Beta-sitosterol has been shown to significantly lower blood cholesterol levels, balance cortisol levels, as well as decrease inflammation in the body.2. Nuts
Next to avocados, nuts are also high in beta-sitosterol, which is great for weight management. Almonds contain protein and fiber, too, and are known to slow the absorption of carbohydrates in the body. Studies have found that walnuts are also a good source of the hormone melatonin, which helps promote a more restful sleep. But raw pistachios rank highest in beta-sitosterol.
3. Goji Berries
While all berries are rich in antioxidants that work to keep the body healthy, goji berries, in particular, are also naturally high in iron. Furthermore, goji berries produce anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects. They contain an antioxidant known as selenium, which aids in the health of your liver and immune system, as well as your thyroid, an important tool in weight loss.4. Cinnamon
Cinnamon has the ability to speed up the metabolism and stabilize blood sugar levels, which can help with weight loss. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that help keep your body healthy. In fact, it's the cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon that naturally helps balance the body's hormones. So add some cinnamon to your oatmeal or sprinkle some on an apple, and enjoy a healthy snack!
5. Green Tea
Studies have shown that green tea extract increases metabolism and helps the body burn fat. Green tea provides a boost of energy while blocking the release of the stress hormone cortisol. This trait of green tea further helps fight the accumulation of belly fat!6. Pomegranates
Pomegranates have amazing anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. In fact, they help keep the body healthy and fight off disease. They also provide the same estrogens that the female ovaries produce - estradiol, estrone, and estriol. Adding pomegranates to your diet may reduce mood swings while helping your body combat breast cancer and heart disease.
7. Turmeric
Adding turmeric to your meals will do more than just spice things up. In fact, extensive research shows that turmeric naturally reduces inflammation, pain, and swelling in the body. It also helps to balance hormones and keep your immune system in tip-top shape!8. Organic Apples
Apples contain a flavonoid known as quercetin, which works as a natural antioxidant and antihistamine in the body. Researchers have found that quercetin increases endurance and boosts aerobic capacity, making apples a great addition to a weight-management diet.
