Vitamins for Hormonal Balance

Why Imbalances Occur

Step 1

Hormone imbalances occur due to the natural aging process but can also be due to factors in the environment, the food you eat, stress and some medications. Meat, plastics, cleaning and beauty products and pollution are rife with hormone disrupters. A diet rich in sugar and other simple carbohydrates, such as white bread and rice, and low in fresh vegetables and fruits denies your body the nutrients it needs for hormone stability. Certain medical conditions can also cause your body's hormones to go haywire.

Step 2

Vitamin D

Step 1

Vitamin D, sometimes called the sunshine vitamin, may play a role in regulating insulin and thyroid hormone, which has implications for diabetes and thyroid disorder. A study published in the International Journal of Health Sciences in 2013 found that vitamin D levels were significantly lower in hypothyroid patients than in controls. This suggests that vitamin D plays a role in thyroid dysfunction.

In addition, vitamin D may help with the regulation of insulin secretion and balances blood sugar. As reported in a study published in the International Journal of Endocrinology in 2010, vitamin D deficiency is associated with insulin resistance, a precursor to type-2 diabetes.

Optimal levels of vitamin D may also help men with low testosterone levels. The vitamin boosts testosterone, strengthens sperm cells and may increase libido.

Talk to your doctor about testing your vitamin D levels and potentially taking a supplement. Food sources of vitamin D include salmon, fortified milks and fortified juices. Regular exposure to sunlight encourages your body to manufacture vitamin D, too.

Step 2

B-6 and PMS

Step 1

Vitamin B-6, also known as pyridoxine, may help with mood swings during premenstrual syndrome. A review of studies published in 2005 in BMJ determined that doses of about 100 milligrams per day are effective in warding off the depression and other symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, including moodiness, irritability, forgetfulness, bloating and anxiety. Vitamin B-6 is available in chickpeas, beef liver, fish and poultry as well as fortified grains. Too much B-6, between 1 and 6 grams per day for over a year, can cause serious nerve damage.

Additional Methods

Step 1

Increasing your intake of certain vitamins can help balance hormones, but other measures should be taken as well for the best results. Reduce stress, by reducing your obligations, delegating work or adopting practices such as yoga and meditation. Stick to a diet consisting of whole foods that emphasizes colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins while steering clear of added sugars and simple carbohydrates, including white bread and rice. Get ample sleep per night, and exercise regularly to keep your body healthy.