How Seed Cycling Works
- Ankitha Rajesh
- Mar 13
- 3 min read
How seed cycling works: Days 1-14 (Menstruation to Ovulation)
Welcome to the first part of our Seed Cycling Series! 🌿✨ Today, we’re diving into Days 1-14 of your menstrual cycle—from menstruation to ovulation. This is the first phase of your cycle, and it’s all about supporting estrogen production and setting the stage for a healthy ovulation process.
One powerful way to support your body during this phase is through flax seeds and pumpkin seeds. These seeds are nutrient powerhouses that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to help you feel your best.
Let’s break down how these seeds work to nourish your body during this critical part of your cycle.
The Role of Estrogen in Days 1-14
During the first half of your menstrual cycle, your body is preparing for ovulation. Estrogen is the primary hormone at play here, and it’s responsible for thickening the lining of your uterus, supporting the growth of your eggs, and boosting your energy levels.
Estrogen is vital for your reproductive health, but it also affects other areas of your well-being, like mood, skin health, and metabolism. That’s why maintaining balanced estrogen levels during this phase is so important for overall hormone health.
How Flax Seeds Support Estrogen Production
Flax seeds are one of the most popular seeds used in seed cycling, and for good reason! They are packed with lignans, a type of phytoestrogen (plant-based estrogen), which can help balance estrogen levels naturally. Phytoestrogens can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, helping to maintain a healthy hormonal environment.
In addition to their estrogen-supporting properties, flax seeds are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats help reduce inflammation, support brain function, and improve mood—essential during a time when your body is preparing for ovulation.
Flax seeds are also an excellent source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. A balanced gut is essential for hormone regulation, as the gut plays a key role in detoxifying excess hormones.
The Power of Pumpkin Seeds for Hormone Health
Pumpkin seeds are another essential food during the first phase of your cycle. Rich in zinc, magnesium, and healthy fats, pumpkin seeds are key to supporting estrogen production and maintaining overall hormone balance.
Zinc is particularly important for immune function, cell division, and the production of hormones. It also supports your body’s natural detoxification processes, which is crucial for keeping excess estrogen in check.
Pumpkin seeds are also an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral known for its ability to relax the body, reduce stress, and support muscle and nerve function. Magnesium is especially helpful during the first part of your cycle, as it can help combat any potential PMS-related mood swings or irritability.
How to Incorporate Flax & Pumpkin Seeds into Your Diet
Now that you know how flax and pumpkin seeds can support your body during the first half of your cycle, the next step is to incorporate them into your daily routine. Here are a few easy ways to add these seeds into your meals:
Smoothies: Blend 1-2 tablespoons of ground flax seeds and pumpkin seeds into your morning smoothie. They add a nutty flavor and plenty of nutritional benefits.
Oats & Porridge: Sprinkle ground flax and pumpkin seeds over your oatmeal, overnight oats, or chia pudding for a nutritious start to your day.
Salads & Bowls: Top your salad or grain bowl with flax and pumpkin seeds for added crunch and hormone-supporting benefits.
Energy Balls or Bars: Make your own energy balls or protein bars by adding these seeds for a satisfying, hormone-balancing snack.
Baked Goods: Include flax and pumpkin seeds in your muffins, pancakes, or other baked treats for an easy and delicious way to nourish your body.
Why It Matters
Supporting your body with the right nutrients during the first phase of your cycle—menstruation to ovulation—sets the foundation for a healthy, balanced cycle overall. Flax and pumpkin seeds offer a natural, plant-based way to support estrogen production, boost energy, and maintain hormone health, making them the perfect addition to your diet during this phase.
By incorporating these seeds into your daily meals, you’re helping to balance your hormones and create a strong, healthy foundation for the rest of your cycle.
Next Steps: Stay Tuned for the Next Phase
Now that you know how flax and pumpkin seeds support your body during the first half of your cycle, you’re well on your way to balancing your hormones naturally. 🌸 Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll dive into the second half of your cycle—Days 15-28—and how sunflower and sesame seeds can support progesterone production and overall hormone balance.
In the meantime, start adding these nutrient-packed seeds into your meals, and feel the difference as you align your nutrition with your natural cycle.
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