progesterone

What is progesterone? Progesterone is a hormone made in a gland called the corpus luteum which is a temporary gland that develops after you ovulate (release an egg from your ovary). The adrenal glands and the placenta can also produce progesterone. It supports pregnancy and regulates menstruation. It’s also responsible for breast development and preparing the body for breastfeeding. In men it aids in sperm production.   Menstruation If the egg isn’t fertilized, the the corpus luteum breaks down, which leads to a drop in progesterone levels. This decrease causes the endometrium to break down, causing the beginning of a menstrual period. Energy is low and so is mood. Rest and reflect. The Follicular phase is when progesterone levels rise. You will have more energy during this period and can work really well. Brain storming, creative tasks or projects and exercise that is more high energy. The Ovulatory phase is when estrogen is more prominent. Your energy and motivation is at a peak.You will be more inclined to do HIIT workouts, trying new things and probably be your most social. And lastly the Luteal phase is when progesterone rises and your energy starts to wane. You might want to focus on cutting back on projects that require a lot of brain power. Do light exercises. Use the time to slow down in preperation for your menstrual period.   Symptoms of low progesterone in women who are not pregnant. Irregular menstrual periods. Difficulty conceiving. Mood changes, anxiety or depression. Trouble sleeping. Hot flashes. low libido fibroids PMS breast tenderness Tips Vitamin C is absorbed in large amounts just before ovulation and stimulates the production of progesterone Zinc increases the production of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) which in turn causes ovulation and leads to the production of progesterone. manage stress levels because stress releases more cortisol and inhibits progesterone cruciferous vegetables can help to increase progesterone.   What are estrogen dominant symptoms? uterine fibroids Fibroid breast tissue Endometriosis premenstrual syndrome Anxiety, depression and mood swings Fatigue and low energy PCOCS Headaches Dry skin/eyes   Synthetic estrogens called xenoestrogens also add to the load of estrogens in the body causing an excess and this upsets the balance. (to learn about xenoestrogens see my post of estrogen).   If you have problems in your body’s detoxification pathway, you can struggle to detox these excess estrogens which can also lead to estrogen dominance. The DNA Oestrogen test will give you an indication if this could be a problem for you. I am an accredited DNA practitioner.   Contact me for more information on your DNA test.