Hormones: they’re not just for teenagers! Often called “chemical messengers,” hormones send signals to various parts of your body, telling them what they need to do (and when they need in order to do it). This web of communication regulates all sorts of important functions, from managing your metabolism, to streamlining your mood, to giving you a good night’s rest. When your hormones aren’t in harmony, you’ll probably feel it.
Tons of factors contribute to the homeostasis of your hormones, and some of them are out of your control. But your dietary habits are one area where you can take the reins. Choosing certain foods—and avoiding others—can promote a healthier hormone balance. Here are four eating habits to avoid to keep your hormones happy. And for more diet tips, check out the 32 Foods That Turn Off the Stress Hormone Cortisol.
1
Overeating (or undereating)
Staying well-nourished contributes to properly regulated hormones—but eating too much or too little can create a chicken-or-the-egg scenario that may be bad news for your hormones. A dip or spike in weight from overeating or undereating can disrupt your hormonal balance, which may then affect your appetite.
Female reproductive hormones appear to be especially influenced by weight changes. Both below-normal and above-normal body mass index (BMI) have been associated with higher risks of hormone-related fertility problems.
One study from 2015 found that women who were overweight or obese were more likely to have polycystic ovarian syndrome and metabolic syndrome—two conditions that decreased their fertility. Women who were underweight, on the other hand, were more likely to have other hormone-mediated conditions that affected fertility: ovarian dysfunction and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
Reproductive hormones aren’t the only ones that can be disturbed by over or under-consuming calories. Obesity (fueled by a high-calorie diet) can cause changes to hypothalamic and pituitary hormones, leading to a greater likelihood of issues like hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, growth hormone deficiency, and more.
