Did you know? Severe, ongoing stress can mess with your mane by blocking hair growth… And it’s all thanks to hormones.

Read on for your guide to maintaining optimum hormonal balance, plus why it all matters for your hair growth.

Androgen Hormones & Hair Loss

Put simply, when hormones are off balance in our bodies, our hair tends to be dry or thin. Women with thyroid imbalances, new mothers, or those who are menopausal may experience hair loss due to a drop in levels of estrogen. Androgen hormones like testosterone and DHEA are the major hormones that dictate hair growth. In women, the ovaries and adrenals are responsible for producing these hormones from cholesterol.

In excess, in these hormones can lead to unwanted hair growth on the face and body, while a lack of estrogen can lead to thinning and dull hair, resulting in stalled growth over time. Optimal levels of estrogen help to grow fuller, thicker hair.

Aging & Hair Loss

As aging occurs, women will experience various cycles of high and low estrogen levels. Estrogen is secreted through the ovaries and adrenal glands, but when a woman reaches menopause, estrogen production in your ovaries is significantly diminished.

This excess burden on your adrenals to produce the historic levels of estrogen can overburden your body, resulting in hair loss and hot flashes. Opt to improve your symptoms by nourishing your body and balancing stress levels.

Blood Sugar Levels & Hair Loss

Insulin regulation is also a big factor in hair health, as an imbalance can lead to various hormonal effects. Insulin helps to regulate blood sugar levels, which effects fat storage and hormone balance. Fat storage and hormone balance play a role in hair growth because fat storages will secrete excess estrogen in the body, and can desensitize hormone signals.

Tips For Regulating Hormones

#1. Get Regular! This is a necessity for hormonal balance. When we are constipated, we are unable to eliminate excess hormones from our system. Adequate fiber, water intake, and liver support are necessary for proper clearance.

#2. Eat More Fiber! Eating leafy vegetables, and a variety of fruits helps to bulk stool and supports elimination. Foods like chia and flax bind to toxins and pull moisture into the stools so that it can easily pass from your body.

#3. Drink More Water! This is essential for proper hydration and moves stool through the intestine. Dehydration leads to constipation!

#4. Support Your Liver. If you didn’t know, your liver is necessary for eliminating unneeded wastes from your body. The toxins your body absorbs pass through your liver and are broken down into water-soluble byproducts. They’re then moved into the intestine and pulled into your stool for elimination. Foods like kale, broccoli, collard greens, and lemon support the liver detox pathways. Herbs like milk thistle, dandelion root, and burdock root help to support liver cleansing, as well!