Answering reading questions 💌
Part II
A few months ago I solicited reader questions and addressed topics such as supplements and snacks. I wasn’t able to cover everything back then so I’m happy to be following up with a Part II.
🪮Why am I losing so much hair!? (I’m not postpartum.)
I’ve been asked this question a lot. Just the other day my hairdresser also commented that many young women are coming into her chair complaining and curious about why this is happening to them. Without fully knowing one’s health history and running labs, I can’t say for sure. But there are a few common reasons.
I recommend a blood test to check your iron levels, thyroid and other vitamin and mineral deficiencies. There is no “test” for PCOS but if you present with symptoms like irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth on the body and thinning hair on the head, etc. it’s possible you have it. Luckily, all of the above are highly responsive to dietary and lifestyle changes alongside supplementation.
Why are my periods so heavy?
Again, I can’t say for sure without having a better understanding of one’s health history but the usual reason for heavy bleeding is estrogen dominance. Estrogen is what’s mainly responsible for building the lining of our uterus each cycle. When we have too much estrogen and not enough progesterone, heavy bleeding is a common symptom. (I should also note that heavy bleeding can be due to polyps or fibroids, which you can ask your doctor to check for.)
Luckily, there is lots that can be done to help balance estrogen and progesterone through diet and lifestyle.
🥦 Support estrogen detoxification by regularly consuming cruciferous vegetables
❌ Avoid environmental toxins and unnecessary medications that strain the liver
💩 Drink plenty of water and consume fiber to support regular bowel movements
🏋️♀️ Sweat regularly and strength train to build muscle (which supports progesterone and ovulation)
💊 Consider supplementation
That’s all for now. See you next week.
Warm regards,
Donelle