Seed Cycling
Seed Cycling is a wellness trick that syncs specific seeds with the phases of your menstrual cycle to balance hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. You simply eat certain seeds during the first half of your cycle (the follicular phase) and switch to different seeds in the second half (the luteal phase). No complicated rules, no fancy equipment—just a little sprinkle of goodness each day!
Please note, if you are no longer menstruating seed cycling can still be beneficial. Instead of tracking your periods, you can follow the cycles of the moon and work intuitively with what you feel your body needs. Whilst being a great for support your menstrual cycle and fertility, it may also alleviate PMS and ease menopausal symptoms.
How to Seed Cycle in Two Easy Steps:
1. Follicular Phase (Days 1-14)
This phase starts on the first day of your period and lasts until ovulation. To support oestrogen production and balance, eat:
- 1 tablespoon flaxseeds
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds
These seeds are packed with phytoestrogens (to balance oestrogen), omega-3, and zinc (to support progesterone production down the line).
2. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)
After ovulation, your body needs progesterone to keep things running smoothly. Help out by eating:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
These seeds are rich in magnesium, zinc, selenium (Vitamin E) and other nutrients to support progesterone levels, hormone metabolism and detoxification.
Not Sure How to Start? Try These Easy Recipes!
If you’re worried seed cycling might feel overwhelming, don’t be. It’s as easy as adding a sprinkle here and there. Check out these simple ideas:
Warm Flax & Pumpkin Seed Porridge (Follicular Phase)
Warm up with a cozy bowl of porridge that’s as good for your hormones as it is for your soul. Just cook some oats with water and a touch of almond milk, stir in your seeds (some like to grind the seeds in a coffee grinder, but I don’t mind eating them as they come), a handful of blueberries and a teaspoon of cinnamon (for their antioxidants), and top with a drizzle of honey or sliced banana. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Sesame & Sunflower Energy Bites (Luteal Phase)
For a grab-and-go snack, mix ground sesame and sunflower seeds with oats, nut butter, and a touch of honey. Roll them into bite-sized balls, and you’ve got hormone-balancing magic you can snack on anytime.
Why Does It Work?
Seeds are little powerhouses of nutrients like omega-3 and 6, lignans, and zinc, which support healthy oestrogen and progesterone levels. They also help your liver process and detox excess hormones—think of it as a mini spa day for your insides.
Keep It Simple & Have Fun
Seed cycling isn’t about being perfect—it’s about giving your body some love in a simple, natural way. Whether you sprinkle seeds on your oatmeal, blend them into soups, or sneak them into baked goods, you’ll be surprised how easy it is to fit this into your day. Give it a go – your hormones will thank you! 
It might take a couple of months before you notice a real difference, but it may give your natural cycles a fantastic boost. Remember to track your BBT (see blog) to provide you with lots of useful information regarding your menstrual cycle.