Words Niamh Leonard-Bedwell. Photographs Stocksy, iStock
A source of heart-healthy fats, fibre and important vitamins and minerals, seeds are a nutritionally dense ingredient, perfect for adding to a smoothie, or sprinkling over your lunchtime salad. But, according to a naturopathic practice called seed cycling, they might have an influence over your hormones, too.
Seed cycling is based on the idea that certain seeds should be eaten at specific times of the month to help regulate your hormones through the menstrual cycle. In her book Beyond The Pill, naturopathic doctor Jolene Brighten claims that seed cycling can restore hormonal balance after coming off birth control, reduce period pain, combat mood swings and even improve fertility. But if you’re hoping that yesterday’s chia seed pudding will be enough to work hormonal wonders, think again. Seed cycling prescribes specific daily dosing over the course of a typical 28-day menstrual cycle.