Seed Cycling
For Hormone Balance and Conception Support
Seed cycling is a natural way to support hormonal balance and regulate the menstrual cycle by consuming specific seeds during different phases of your cycle. This practice is beneficial for regulating hormones, improving egg quality for conception, and bringing more harmony to your menstrual health.
Follicular Phase (Day 1–14)
This phase starts on the first day of menstruation and lasts until ovulation. The seeds consumed during this phase help support estrogen production.
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Seeds to eat:
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1 tablespoon of flax seeds (ground)
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1 tablespoon of pumpkin seeds (ground or whole)
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In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), flax seeds are moistening to the Large Intestine, supporting regular bowel movements and nourishing Yin (which aligns with estrogen). Pumpkin seeds tonify Qi, benefiting the Spleen and Stomach, while also promoting blood circulation, which can improve egg quality.
Luteal Phase (Day 15–28)
This phase begins after ovulation and lasts until the start of the next cycle. The seeds consumed during this phase help support progesterone production.
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Seeds to eat:
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1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (ground or whole)
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1 tablespoon of sunflower seeds (ground or whole)
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In TCM, sesame seeds are considered to nourish Blood and Yin, providing deep support for healthy tissue building, while sunflower seeds tonify Yang and Qi, both of which are needed for sustaining energy and warmth in the luteal phase. Together, these seeds support the Kidney and Liver meridians, which are crucial for reproductive health.
How Seed Cycling Supports Egg Quality
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Yin nourishing foods (such as flax and sesame seeds) help build Blood, which is essential for healthy egg development and overall fertility.
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Qi tonifying foods (like pumpkin and sunflower seeds) ensure that there is proper energy flow to the reproductive organs, improving ovarian function and promoting high-quality egg production.
Easy Ways to Add Seeds to Your Diet
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Breakfast Porridge: Add 1 tablespoon of ground seeds to warm oatmeal, millet, or congee. For example, you can add flax and pumpkin seeds to oatmeal during the follicular phase or sesame and sunflower seeds during the luteal phase.
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Smoothies: Blend the appropriate seeds into your smoothie for a quick and nutrient-dense addition.
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Yogurt or Chia Pudding: Sprinkle the seeds over yogurt, chia pudding, or other breakfast bowls for a crunchy texture and extra hormone support.
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Salads: Sprinkle seeds over fresh salads, soups, or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
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For best results, use freshly ground seeds (a coffee grinder works great), as pre-ground seeds can lose their potency. You can store seeds in the fridge to preserve their freshness.
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By consistently incorporating seed cycling into your daily meals, you can support your body's natural rhythms, improve hormonal balance, and enhance your fertility.