When it comes to the intricate balance of hormones in women’s bodies, it’s important to recognize the collaborative efforts of both oestrogen and progesterone. Often overshadowed by its more well-known counterpart, progesterone plays an equally crucial role in maintaining female health. These two ovarian hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, form a dynamic duo that work together as a team.

Take the pre-ovulatory surge of oestrogen, for instance. This surge, primarily in the form of estradiol, not only triggers ovulation but also stimulates the production of progesterone and oestrogen serves as a catalyst in every tissue, facilitating the promotion of progesterone receptors.

Progesterone emerges as the key counterbalance to oestrogen’s influence across multiple body areas. In the uterus, for example, while oestrogen encourages the thickening of the uterine lining, progesterone steps in to delicately thin it. Moreover, progesterone offers a calming effect in the brain, while oestrogen contributes to stimulation. Even in the realm of breast health, progesterone slows cell division, countering oestrogen’s tendency to increase it.

The profound interplay between these hormones extends further. Progesterone provides essential hormonal feedback to the hypothalamus, thereby promoting ovulation. Together oestrogen and progesterone promote long-term brain health, bone, and cardiovascular well-being.

Nurturing progesterone levels involves a strategic approach:

Stress Management: Keeping stress in check helps maintain optimal hormone balance.

Vitamin C: A daily intake of 1,000 mg of vitamin C can elevate progesterone levels.
Alternatively, incorporating high-vitamin C foods such as citrus fruits, strawberries, and broccoli can offer similar benefits.

Vitamin B: Crucial for oestrogen metabolism, vitamin B6 showcases progesterone-like effects by diminishing oestrogen and enhancing progesterone levels. A B Complex supplement might prove beneficial.

Magnesium: This mineral supports adrenal health, which in turn bolsters hormone production. Magnesium-rich foods like dark green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes are recommended. Supplementary magnesium (150-300 mg nightly) can aid further.

Zinc: Facilitating healthy ovulation and progesterone production, zinc-rich foods like oysters, , herring, beef, lamb, pork, liver, egg yolks, oats, pecans, Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, ginger root, mustard, chilli powder, peas, carrots, beets, and cabbage.

Vitex: A renowned herb known for its ability to support progesterone levels.

Bottom line, the narrative of female health should encompass both oestrogen and progesterone.

Understanding the teamwork between these hormones allows for a more comprehensive understanding of their impact on various bodily systems. By adopting lifestyle choices that help keep progesterone and oestrogen in harmony, women can take charge of their well-being and ensure the longevity of their cognitive, skeletal, and cardiovascular health.

Louise x