Day 14 - Happy Hormones: Progesterone

This is Day 14 for a series of talks called “Happy Hormones: A 30-Day Gut Reset For Women”. If you have yet to start from Day 1, I suggest you do so to optimize your success and knowledge. A 30-day journey to improve brain clarity, gain more energy, prevent disease, and balance a healthy weight for women by balancing their hormones. Today, we discuss the hormone progesterone, its benefits, and how to identify imbalances.

Disclaimer: Please remember that the suggested materials are only for educational and informational purposes. However, this does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, please understand that you should always consult a physician or other healthcare professional.

Transcript

Welcome back!

My name is Samantha Linden,

Also known as the Blissful Soul.

This is our series,

Happy Hormones,

A 30-day gut reset for women.

If you haven't started from day one yet,

I highly recommend doing so to maximize your success and understanding.

Let's dive into progesterone today.

Progesterone,

A hormone involved in the menstrual cycle,

Exhibits two distinct surges.

A brief increase occurs between days 11 and 18,

Followed by a more substantial spike between day 20 and the onset of the next cycle.

This hormone plays a crucial role in preparing the uterine lining for the potential implantation of a fertilized egg,

And the two surges of progesterone help regulate the timing and success of this process.

Progesterone has a calming influence by stimulating the neurotransmitter GABA.

This effect promotes relaxation,

Rest,

And tranquility.

During this period,

It is beneficial to prioritize self-care and avoid stressful activities.

It is also an ideal time for activities that promote relaxation,

Such as taking baths,

Meditating,

Or spending time alone.

Engaging in these self-care practices can help further enhance progesterone's calming effects and support overall well-being during this time.

Progesterone is sensitive to high levels of stress.

When cortisol,

The stress hormone,

Rises,

Progesterone levels decrease.

Therefore,

It is important to manage stress during periods of high progesterone levels.

This is particularly important for women during their menstrual cycle,

As fluctuations in progesterone levels can impact fertility,

Mood,

And overall well-being.

By practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation,

Exercise,

And proper self-care,

Individuals can help maintain healthy progesterone levels and support their overall hormonal balance.

Progesterone has a neutral effect on blood glucose levels.

Between days 20 and 30 of the cycle,

When progesterone levels are elevated,

Consuming higher levels of carbohydrates works well with the hormones.

This is because progesterone helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels during this phase of the menstrual cycle,

Allowing for better tolerance of carbohydrates without causing spikes in blood glucose,

Which is why it is recommended that carbs be raised again at that time.

Imbalances in progesterone levels can manifest as symptoms such as hair loss,

Anxiety,

Sleep disturbances,

And increased cravings.

Low progesterone levels may be Low progesterone levels may also be a contributing factor in women who have not yet reached menopause but have lost their menstrual cycle.

If you notice these imbalances,

I suggest keeping at the lower fast mark during days 11 through 18 and days 20 through 30.

Also,

I suggest eating higher carb natural foods between 75 and 150 carbs.

Tomorrow,

We will discuss how to extend fasting again because of another hormone shift.

In the meantime,

Keep your fast around the 13-hour mark.

I will talk to you again tomorrow.