Hormonal and stressed
- Do you get PMS or have a history of menstrual problems?
- Do you have fibroids, endometriosis or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?
- Do you get pre-menstrual or ovulation sugar cravings?
- Do you get hormonal phases of irritability, crying and/or negative thoughts?
- Do you have menopausal symptoms?
- Do you have fertility issues?
- Have you used hormonal contraception (the Pill, IUD or implant) for years?
Affecting women only, this body type thrives on stress hormones interacting with oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone, skewing the delicate balance your hormonal system needs to function well and leading to weight gain typically on the bottom, hips and thighs.
What to do: Reduce your alcohol consumption as it can raise circulating oestrogen and may worsen PMS.
Organic meat, eggs and dairy products tend to be lower in growth hormones, which may disrupt your hormone balance.
Eat a little fermented soy in the form of soy sauce, the Chinese and Japanese have found this can help regulate the balance of female hormones.
Eat plenty of fibre to ensure effective elimination of excess hormones via the bowel (constipation may cause hormones and toxins to be re-absorbed into the body).
Exercise every day — it is a crucial physical process that increases hormone balance by boosting circulation and detoxification.