According to Dr Chetty, a healthy diet can help keep our hormone levels balanced. “By improving diet, hormonal imbalances can be corrected,” she says. In particular, Dr Chetty recommends eating mainly fresh and unprocessed food and drinking plenty of water. She also notes that it is a good idea to keep salt levels in check.

With our hectic lifestyles, sleep deprivation has become a common problem. But did you know that missing out on your Zzz’s can trigger hormone disruption?

“People who are sleep deprived are more likely to have lower levels of thyroid and sex hormones. These decreased levels trigger increased intake of sweets and starch in order to increase hormone production,” Dr Chetty explains. Here are 21 things you can do for better quality sleep.

Dr Chetty says that light has a big impact on our hormones. To make the most of this, she suggests trying to increase light exposure during the day and limiting light exposure at night (for example, block out any street lights with black-out curtains).

READ MORE: All The Reasons You’re Not Sleeping Well And What You Can Do About It

While a chirpy positive mood might not be realistic when you have PMS, maintaining a good mood at other times could help you stay on top of your hormones. “Positive attitudes and emotions along with good news all contribute to better hormonal levels. Meditation increases DHEA, Melatonin and normalises cortisol. Friendly physical contact increases oxytocin in levels,” Dr Chetty explains.

READ MORE: Feeling Down Or Moody? Eat These Happiness-Boosting Foods Now

Dr Chetty suggests that women who feel they are ruled by their hormones can take stock by making an inventory of their healthy and unhealthy habits. This will give them some insight into things they can improve to create better hormone balance.

Of course, if you are really struggling with the monthly disruption your period brings, then it’s a good idea to check in with your GP to get some advice. Dr Chetty says that hormones make us who we are. “You can make choices that improve your hormone balance so you feel healthy, calmer, and mentally sharp,” she says. “Strive for a happier, healthier and longer life.”

READ MORE:
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Signs That You Have Hormonal Imbalance And What To Do About It
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