1) Lay off the sugar & wine. Are you self medicating with a glass (or bottle) of wine every night to unwind? Or are your sugar cravings overpowering during the day? Sugar and booze are 2 of the biggest endocrine disruptors, and they contribute to the body’s stress load. Sugar causes inflammation and feeds bad bacteria in your gut (read: causes bloating, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea), and wine overloads your detox system, which needs to be kept in good working order to metabolize your hormones and contribute to overall hormone balance. Kick both and feel better in a week. Your hormones will be happier too.

2) SLEEP. Sleep is the best Rx for stress. We don’t get nearly enough of it. We’re burning the candle at both ends, and our hormones are paying for our on-the-go lifestyles. Lack of sleep causes high cortisol, weight gain, sugar cravings, and fatigue. Get 8-9 hours nightly. Don’t be afraid of a 20 minute nap on the weekends (or during the workday).

3) Support your liver. As I mentioned, your liver is in charge of metabolizing hormones and plays a crucial role in hormone balance. Your liver is your hardest working organ, so be kind to it. It has to filter everything you eat (including medications), drink, breathe, and apply to your skin. So ditch the sodas, sugar, booze, white flour and chemical-laden processed foods. Swap them out for liver-loving cruciferous veggies, organic proteins and eggs, leafy greens, beets and carrots, and green veggie juices.

4) Fix your stressful relationships. This one may take some time, but you can start by asking yourself these questions: are you trapped in an unhappy or unhealthy relationship? Be open and honest. Would seeking therapy help? Examine all the close relationships in your life and figure out how you can improve them. Your emotional wellbeing is crucial to happiness and hormone balance. Finding a spiritual path can help– whatever speaks to you.

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