5 Foods That Destroy Your Hormones & Skin

Acne happens to the best of us. Just when you think you’re past that age where you wake up with a few new zits, it happens. Acne later on in life can often be attributed to an imbalance of hormones.

Hormonal acne is the result of an endocrine imbalance. Most women experience the effects mid-cycle and/or right before their periods – the two points in the cycle when estrogen and testosterone are both at their highest points. When women can’t process hormones correctly, estrogen and testosterone can accumulate. This prevents the body from being able to detox properly, which can lead to estrogen dominance. The result becomes inflamed skin and acne.

If you suffer from hormonal acne, you’re not alone. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on special creams and soaps, try taking a long, hard look at the foods you eat. What you put into your body will determine the outcome of your skin. The foods you eat can either disrupt your hormones and cause inflammation, or help balance your hormones and soothe irritation.

The Worst Foods For Your Hormones And Skin

1. Dairy

A lot of dairy products contain synthetic hormones that contribute to excess hormones in the body. Dairy is also one of the main causes of leaky guy syndrome. It can cause inflammation in the body, leading to acne and other problems.

2. Soy

Soy contains phytoestrogens that can unbalance hormones. If you’re already hormonally sensitive, consuming soy can cause breakouts. Soy is often an unexpected ingredient in many foods, so make sure you’re checking nutrition labels.

3. Gluten

Gluten is similar to dairy in the way that it affects the body. It causes inflammation in the gut and can disrupt hormone levels. It can also be responsible for other health issues.

4. Canola, Sunflower, Safflower and Vegetable Oil

These cooking oils contain more omega-6 acids than omega-3 fatty acids. An overabundance of omega-6 acids in the body can produce skin inflammation during peak estrogen times.

5. Caffeine

Caffeine might help get you going in the morning, but it can also affect your skin’s immune response. Both coffee and tea can strip your body of essential B vitamins, magnesium and zinc.

The Best Foods For Your Hormones And Skin

1. Avocados

Avocados contain beta-sitosterol, a substance that has been shown to lower balance hormone levels and decrease inflammation in the body. Adding avocados to your diet can help keep your body healthy and protect your skin from inflammation.

2. Cinnamon

Cinnamon contains anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that work to keep your body healthy. The cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon helps balance the body’s hormones.

3. Pomegranates

Pomegranates have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They also provide the same estrogens that the female ovaries produce. Adding this fruit to your diet can help reduce mood swings while helping your body fight off inflammation.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric naturally reduces inflammation, pain and swelling in the body. Adding turmeric to your meals can help balance your hormones and keep your immune system strong. It’s a great natural remedy for your skin.

5. Chia Seeds

This gluten-free grain can be added to almost any dish. It’s one of the highest sources of omega-3’s in nature. Chia seeds balance hormones by stabilizing blood sugar, improving insulin sensitivity and easing blood pressure spikes.