Why should you eat cabbage to balance your hormones?

Did you know that cabbage is a surprisingly powerful superfood for hormone balance? As a Registered Nutritionist in London, I often recommend it to clients navigating PCOS, perimenopause, or menopause because its unique compounds can meaningfully support hormonal health. Whether eaten raw, cooked, or fermented, cabbage offers evidence-backed benefits that make it a valuable addition to any hormone-supportive diet.

PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It can cause a range of symptoms, including irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and excess hair growth. One of the key factors in managing PCOS is keeping your hormones in balance, and cabbage can help with that. 

Cabbage is rich in phytonutrients, which are plant compounds that have been shown to have hormone-balancing effects. These phytonutrients can help regulate estrogen levels, which is important for women with PCOS as they often have higher levels of estrogen compared to other hormones. By incorporating cabbage into your diet, you may be able to help bring your estrogen levels back into balance and reduce symptoms of PCOS. 

Cabbage is also a great source of fiber, which can help with insulin resistance, another common issue for women with PCOS. Insulin resistance can lead to higher levels of insulin in the blood, which can disrupt hormone levels and contribute to symptoms of PCOS. By including cabbage in your meals, you can help stabilize your blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which can have a positive impact on your hormonal health. 

Now, let’s talk about menopause. Menopause is a natural part of the aging process for women, but it can come with its own set of hormonal challenges. As oestrogen levels decline during menopause, many women experience symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and trouble sleeping. Cabbage can be a valuable ally in navigating the hormonal changes that come with menopause. 

Cabbage contains compounds called indoles, which have been shown to help balance estrogen levels in the body. This can be particularly beneficial during menopause when estrogen levels are fluctuating. By including cabbage in your diet, you may be able to help regulate your oestrogen levels and reduce the severity of menopausal symptoms. 

In addition to its hormone-balancing properties, cabbage is also a nutrient-dense food that can support overall health during menopause. It is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese. These nutrients are important for bone health, heart health, and immune function, all of which can be affected by the hormonal changes that occur during menopause. 

So whether you’re dealing with PCOS or going through menopause, consider adding more cabbage to your diet to help support your hormonal health. From balancing oestrogen levels to improving insulin sensitivity, cabbage has a lot to offer when it comes to keeping your hormones in check. Give it a try and see how it can make a difference in how you feel!