6 Healthy Foods That Balance Hormones In Females

Women need more nutrients than men because of hormones. Most women face iron deficiency because of blood loss during menstruation. Whether a woman is a homemaker or a working woman, sometimes it becomes difficult for them to have a proper meal because of work and all. So, a balanced diet for women should include fish, poultry and meat in the regular diet.

Vegetarians can opt for black beans, kidney beans, lentils, spinach, split peas as they are good sources of iron. Along with the dietary supplements, it becomes vital that you include quality protein, vegetables, healthy fats and fruit in your foods that balance hormones in females.

# Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are the major source of energy for your body. All women should include complex carbohydrates in their meals to maintain a healthy body. Some of the best carbohydrates sources are millets, whole grains, cereals, seeds, brown rice, legumes, and nuts. Along with carbohydrates, make sure to include dietary fibre to maintain a healthy digestive system.

# Proteins

Protein is one of the main macronutrients that is required for body structure and function. Protein is known to help with muscle synthesis, which can help with weight loss, gives you lean body mass, and boosts metabolism. Protein also keeps your feeling full for longer which easily reduces the risk of eating high calorie food, and controls caloric intake. Some of the best sources of proteins are milk, pulses, meat, eggs, and sprouts.

# Fats

Fats help in supplying energy for the entire day of work and stress. A balanced diet consists of 20% of fats. There are three kinds of fats which include omega 3 fatty acids, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated. Some of the best sources of healthy fats are olive oil, soybean oil, sesame oil, groundnut oil, and mustard oil.

# Folate

Folate is the main nutrient of a balanced diet for pregnant women, essential to support fetal development in health and prevent neural tube defects. This vitamin is essential for amino acid synthesis. Some of the best sources of folate are chickpeas, lentils, dark green veggies, and beans.

# Calcium

Calcium plays an essential role in heart and bone health and also helps with the functions related to muscle contractions and nerve impulses. Women must consume 1000 mg of calcium in a day. Some of the best sources of calcium are yogurt, cheese, milk, and other dairy products. If you are lactose intolerant, you can opt for almond milk, collard greens and soybeans.

# Iron

Women need more iron than men to compensate for menstrual cycles and during pregnancy. Women should increase their iron intake during menstruation and pregnancy. Some of the best iron sources are soybeans, seaweed, pumpkin seeds, kidney beans, and lentils.

# Fluids

Water is the main fluid source and is vital for critical processes in the body, including oxygen and nutrients transfer throughout the body, digestion of food, lubrication of joints, excretion of waste material and maintaining body temperature. So, make sure to have enough water throughout the day.