Women, Ditch These Everyday Items For Healthier Hormones
If you didn’t already know, hormones play a vital role in everything from mood and energy to sleep and overall well-being – especially if you’re a woman.
But did you know that everyday products could mess with your hormones?
Many common items contain chemicals that can disrupt hormone balance, making it harder for your body to function at its best. The good news? You don’t have to overhaul your life to make a positive change. Simple swaps can make a big difference!
Here are seven easy swaps to help support healthy hormones.
What is the Best Way to Balance Hormones?
Swap #1 – Regular Perfume for Natural, Non-Toxic Perfume
Your favorite designer perfumes might smell great, but they often contain a cocktail of synthetic chemicals, including phthalates, which can be a major hormone disruptor. Nasty chemicals can interfere with your body’s natural hormone production and balance, leading to terrible mood swings, fatigue – or even more serious health issues over time.
What to do instead – The best way to balance hormones is to switch to natural, non-toxic perfumes that use essential oils and plant-based ingredients. Vegan perfumes smell just as beautiful but without the hidden nasties, allowing you to enjoy your signature scent without compromising your health.
Swap #2 – Plastic Water Bottles for Metal or Glass
We’ve all grabbed a plastic water bottle on the go, but many plastics contain BPA, a chemical linked to hormone dysregulation. When plastic heats up – think about leaving your water bottle in the car – it can leach BPA into your water, which you end up drinking.
What to do instead – Invest in a stainless steel or glass water bottle. They’re naturally BPA-free, durable, and keep your water tasting fresh without the risk of chemical exposure. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce plastic waste, so it’s a win for your hormones and the planet.
Swap #3 – Conventional Skincare Products for Clean, Non-Toxic Options
Your skin is your largest organ, absorbing much of what you put on it. Many conventional skincare products contain parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances that can mess with female hormones. These chemicals can mimic estrogen in the body, leading to imbalances that affect everything from mood to menstrual cycles.
What to do instead – Look for skincare products labeled ‘clean, ‘non-toxic,’ or ‘paraben-free.’ Brands focusing on natural ingredients, like aloe, chamomile, and jojoba oil, can nourish your skin without hormonal interference. It’s a simple switch that will leave your skin and your hormones feeling much healthier.
Swap #4 – Non-Stick Cookware for Cast Iron or Stainless Steel
Non-stick pans might be convenient, but it’s the coating that makes them so easy to clean that can release harmful chemicals like PFOA when heated. These chemicals are known as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can affect your hormonal health over time.
What to do instead – Switch to cast iron or stainless steel cookware. Cast iron is naturally non-stick once seasoned and can even add a little extra iron to your diet – a win-win for women still menstruating! Stainless steel is another great option that’s also durable and free from harmful chemicals.
Swap #5 – Scented Candles for Beeswax or Soy Candles
Most of us love a good scented candle. But before you light up, remember that many conventional candles are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum that can release harmful toxins when burned. Add in synthetic fragrances, and you’ve got a cocktail of airborne hormone disruptors.
What to do instead – Opt for beeswax or naturally scented soy vegan candles with essential oils. Not only do these candles burn cleaner, but they also create a natural, inviting atmosphere without releasing harmful chemicals. Plus, beeswax candles can even help purify the air – a bonus for your home environment.
Swap #6 – Conventional Cleaning Products for Natural Alternatives
Your everyday cleaning products could also be impacting your hormone health. Many traditional shop-bought cleaning products contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and endocrine disruptors that linger in the air long after you’ve finished cleaning.
What to do instead – What is the best way to balance hormones? Choose natural cleaning products made from ingredients you recognize, like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. You can even DIY some cleaning products to keep it simple and cheap.
Swap #7 – Processed Foods for Whole, Organic Options
We’ve all been there where we can’t think of what to cook or in a rush and grab convenience foods. But processed snacks and meals often contain preservatives, additives and pesticides that can interfere with your hormones. Not to mention, a lot of packaged foods are very high in sugar, which can contribute to insulin resistance (a key player in hormone imbalance).
What to do instead – It sounds boring, but focus on eating whole foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. Over time, your body will start to crave these nourishing foods, and your hormones will thrive. Choose organic when possible to reduce your pesticide exposure, and look for hormone-free meat and dairy options. Eating clean, whole foods helps support your body’s natural hormone balance, giving you more energy and fewer mood swings.
Small Changes, Big Impact on Hormone Health
So, what is the best way to balance hormones? As you can see, you don’t have to change your entire life to support your hormone health. It’s all about being mindful of what you’re using daily, from the perfume you spray to the candles you burn. Start today and take one step closer to healthier, happier hormones!