What is Seed Cycling?
Seed Cycling is the rotation of different edible seeds into the diet at different times in the menstrual cycle. Different seeds will help promote estrogen production during the first half of the cycle, while others promote progesterone production during the second half. In turn, these seeds will balance the hormonal rhythm in a woman and promote a healthier cycle, as well as support different symptoms such as PMS, cramping, irregularity and even aiding in transition into menopause.
How Does it Work?
Based on a 28-day cycle, the first 13 days represent the menstrual/follicular phase, in which day 1 is when menstruation begins. The egg is maturing in this phase so estrogen starts low and steadily increases. We want to keep estrogen balanced in the follicular phase. During days 1 to 13, it is recommended to consume either flax or pumpkin seeds daily to boost estrogen and support the ovary as it gets ready for ovulation.
Days 14 to 28, known as the luteal phase, it is recommended to intake sesame or sunflower seeds to boost progesterone at this time. Sesame seeds and sunflower seeds are high in lignans which help to regulate estrogen and progesterone levels in the luteal phase.
Benefits of Seed Cycling
While it is not guaranteed, many women have experienced incredible benefits from seed cycling. When done consistently and accurately, it can be an amazing tool. Here are some of the things that seed cycling may help with:
- hormone balancing
- cycle regulation
- PMS relief
- stimulate period if it was absent
- fertitlity
How to Implement Seed Cycling into Your Lifestyle
When adding the seeds to your diet it’s helpful to grind them up in order to increase the surface area for absorption of the essential fatty acids, minerals, and other nutrients. Below is our favorite recipe for helping to add the seeds to your daily routine.
Seed Cycling Energy Balls
- Ingredients
- Seed Cycle Blends
- Folicular (day 1-13) Flaxseed and Pumpkin seeds: Ground up or whole
- Luteal (14-28) Sunflower seeds and Sesame seeds: Ground up or whole
- Shredded Coconut
- Nut Butter
- Oats
- Mini Chocolate Chips: YUM!
- Honey: Can be substituted for other sweeteners
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash for flavor
- Seed Cycle Blends
- Instructions
- Combine all ingredients: stir in large bowl
- Chill: Cover and put in refrigerator for a few hours
- Roll: Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to help roll out balls
Store: Keep in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
Another option for someone starting seed cycling is to invest in convenient seed cycling packets. We love the one from the brand MONA Seeds because it makes seed cycling convenient to start. Seed cycling chocolates are another amazing option. They taste great and reap so many benefits at the same time. The Moon Chocolate seed cycling products are our favorite!
Take Control of Your Hormones
The biggest thing we love about seed cycling is that it promotes the idea that women have the power to take control of their hormones and begin to understand their bodies. Seed cycling is one way to take an all-natural approach towards hormone health. Living with painful and irregulated periods is never ideal so give seed cycling a try and see what you think!
