Diet for a Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal imbalances occur when an individual's estrogen and progesterone levels are abnormal. The symptoms can mimic menopause and cause fatigue, mood disorders, fibrocystic breasts and irregular menstrual cycles. However, adopting the proper diet, along with hormone treatment, can help ease symptoms.

Breakfast

The depression and fatigue associated with hormonal imbalances leaves people craving sugar, caffeine, alcohol and processed foods. These cravings are the body's way of self-medicating. It is imperative to cut out or limit the intake of these chemicals in your meals. Start your day on the right foot by eating healthy fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Breakfast ideas include egg-white omelets packed with vegetables, fresh fruit topped with yogurt, whole-grain English muffins and natural peanut butter or scrambled tofu spiced with fresh herbs. By giving yourself the correct fuel, you will reduce symptoms of body aches and tiredness.

Snacks and Lunch

Midmorning and midafternoon snacks will not only boost your metabolism, but ensure you don't overeat at meals. Nuts are convenient to carry and high in protein. Avoid nuts that are honey roasted or salty. Salt will increase bloating. Salads, sandwiches made with whole-grain bread, fish, soups and vegetables are ideal lunch meals. Avoid cheese, starchy foods like bread and cake, and fatty foods like beef and pork and anything in cream sauce. Get your protein through lentils, beans, tofu and fish.

Dinner

People are more likely to adhere to a diet when some of the legwork has already been done. By cooking a large amount of fish, tofu, vegetables, or lentils, you can easily add these proteins to meals. Top salads with pregrilled tuna, add vegetables to whole-grain pastas, or use tofu when making fajitas. When cooking proteins, use a cooking spray or olive oil instead of butter. Any high-fat food will simply increase your symptoms. For dessert, a fruit salad is a lovely way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Caloric Intake

Always get your correct daily allotment of calories. It is easy to find out online or from a doctor how many calories you need based on your weight, age and gender. A food journal will allow you to add up calories and document any foods that aggravate your symptoms. Snack only on healthy foods like fresh fruit , raw veggies, low-fat yogurt and dry-roasted nuts. By following a healthy meal regime, you have a better chance of getting your hormones back on track and alleviating your symptoms.