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Is It Actually Possible to Balance Your Hormones?

  • Writer: Dr. Alison Tomlinson
    Dr. Alison Tomlinson
  • Mar 26
  • 4 min read

Let's talk hormones. Ahhh!!! Someone stop her… But really, let’s get into it. You’ve probably heard all kinds of advice about “balancing your hormones,” but is that even possible?


Here’s the truth: Your body is already doing the work to regulate them. Instead of trying to "balance" or "detox" your hormones, let’s shift the focus to supporting your body in what it’s naturally designed to do.


What Does It Mean to “Balance Your Hormones” Anyway?


Your hormones are like the body’s internal text message system, constantly sending signals to keep everything running smoothly—mood, metabolism, energy levels, digestion, sleep, and even skin health. When we talk about “balancing” hormones, we’re not forcing our bodies to do something unnatural. Instead, we’re supporting the processes that are already happening and making sure nothing gets too out of whack.


The truth is, your body is always working to maintain homeostasis—it doesn’t need you to balance anything, just to remove obstacles and provide the right tools. Think of it like a car with a self-correcting GPS; it knows where it’s supposed to go, but if you throw roadblocks (like processed foods, stress, or poor sleep) in its way, it has to work a lot harder to get there. By making supportive choices, you’re simply clearing the path so your body can do its job more efficiently.


Hormonal imbalances can happen when stress, poor sleep, processed foods, or environmental toxins disrupt the natural rhythm of things. And while there are many ways to support hormone health, one of the most powerful (and simplest) is food.


How Food Can Be Your Hormonal BFF


Food isn’t just about calories or macros—it’s information. Every bite you take tells your body something. The goal? Eat in a way that provides the right nutrients to support hormone production, detoxification, and balance. Here’s how:


  1. Healthy Fats = Happy Hormones


    Hormones are built from fats, so getting enough high-quality sources like avocado, olive oil, nuts, seeds, and wild-caught fish can help your body produce and regulate key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.



  2. Protein: The Building Blocks


    Protein provides amino acids that support neurotransmitters (hello, mood balance) and help stabilize blood sugar, which is key for keeping cortisol (your stress hormone) in check. Think grass-fed meats, eggs, lentils, and quinoa.



  3. Fiber for the Win


    Fiber (from veggies, fruits, and whole grains) helps your body detox excess hormones like estrogen. If your digestion is sluggish, hormones can build up and cause bloating, mood swings, or skin issues. Ew, we don’t love to feel that way.



  4. Sugar: The Frenemy


    Blood sugar swings wreak havoc on hormones. When you eat a lot of sugar or refined carbs, insulin spikes, leading to energy crashes, cravings, and even hormone-related issues like PCOS or acne. The fix? Balance sweets with protein and healthy fats, and opt for natural sources like fruit when you need a little treat.



  5. Gut Health = Hormone Health


    Your gut plays a huge role in hormone regulation, from breaking down excess estrogen to influencing serotonin (your happy hormone). Fermented foods (kimchi, yogurt, sauerkraut) and prebiotic-rich foods (garlic, onions, bananas) help keep your gut and hormones happy.



  6. PCOS Support: Managing Insulin and Inflammation


    For those with PCOS, balancing insulin is crucial. Focus on low-glycemic foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and lean proteins to keep blood sugar stable. Anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, fatty fish, and flaxseeds can also help reduce symptoms.



  7. Menopause & Perimenopause: Nourishing Hormonal Shifts


    During menopause and perimenopause, estrogen levels fluctuate, often leading to symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue. Phytoestrogen-rich foods like flaxseeds, soy, and chickpeas can offer gentle support, while magnesium-rich foods like dark chocolate, spinach, and almonds help with stress and sleep.


Supplements: A Helping Hand, Not a Magic Fix


While food is the foundation of hormone support, supplements can help fill in the gaps—especially if you have specific deficiencies or added stressors. Here are a few that can support hormonal health:


  1. Magnesium – Helps with stress management, sleep, and insulin sensitivity.

  2. Vitamin D – Plays a key role in hormone production and immune function.

  3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Reduce inflammation and support hormone synthesis.

  4. B Vitamins – Aid in energy production and neurotransmitter balance.

  5. Adaptogens (like Ashwagandha & Maca) – Help the body adapt to stress and regulate cortisol levels.

  6. Inositol (for PCOS) – Supports insulin sensitivity and ovarian function.

Before starting any supplements, it’s always best to check with a healthcare provider to determine what your body actually needs.


The Bottom Line: Work With Your Body, Not Against It

Your body isn’t working against you—it’s working for you. Supporting hormone balance isn’t about restriction or complicated protocols. It’s not about changing how your body functions… It’s about eating whole, nourishing foods that give your body what it needs to function at its best. Support system!

So, the next time you hear someone talking about “balancing hormones,” remember: it’s not about forcing anything—it’s about assisting your body in doing what it’s already designed to do. And the best part? You can do it simply, deliciously, and without overthinking every bite. Cheers to happy hormones and feeling your best!


Love, Dr. Alison


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