I’ve seen women struggling with symptoms of PMS, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), post-birth control syndrome (PBCS), irregular periods, acne, and breast tenderness benefit from adding seed cycling to their routine. As I guide you in how to get started with seed cycling, I am going to reference a 28-day cycle. But please note, you may have a cycle that is longer or shorter. In fact, only a small percentage of women have 28-day cycles, so please don’t stress, and simply adapt the cycle to fit your cycle. Flax seeds in particular are rich in lignans, which have a weak estrogenic effect3 and have been shown to be beneficial in preventing osteoporosis, improving estrogen and progesterone ratios, and heart disease in women. Research has also shown that women with PCOS who consume flax seeds may also experience a positive shift in androgens4, which are what cause hair loss, acne, and hirsutism for women with this condition. There have also been studies showing that cyclical breast tenderness, like the kind that comes on right before your period, is improved by including flax seeds in your diet5. Also notable is that some studies have shown that the lignans found in pumpkin seeds may be beneficial in breast cancer prevention6. Sesame seeds have been shown to be beneficial for women’s hormones7, even through menopause. Sesame and sunflower seeds also contain lignans and essential fatty acids that support the hormones that carry us through the luteal phase. For postpartum moms, postmenopausal women or those who are experiencing amenorrhea (no periods), seed cycling can be done by following the moon cycle. Use the new moon as your day 1 and eat flax seeds and pumpkin seeds. When the full moon arrives, switch to the sunflower and sesame seeds. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
