Many women suffer from hormonal imbalances such as PMS, uterine fibroids, hot flashes, PCOS, and acne. One of the most effective things to help restore balance is to include more fiber in your diet.

Our liver is responsible for processing excess hormones and in doing so prepares extra estrogen to be released into our digestive tract to be eliminated in our stool. If we suffer from constipation or do not have enough probiotic bacteria, the estrogen can be reabsorbed and go back into circulation.

A special kind of dietary fiber called lignin, present in flax seeds, beans and lentils, binds to estrogen in the digestive tract to ensure it is eliminated and not reabsorbed into our system. Dietary fiber also feeds the beneficial probiotic bacteria living in our gut and keeps them healthy. In this way fiber and probiotics work together with your liver to reduce your risk of breast, thyroid and prostate cancers and reduce PMS and perimenopausal symptoms.

Dietary fiber also enhances blood sugar control. This action of fiber helps to reduce your appetite, reduce your weight, and reduce your risk of diabetes.

What are your best sources of fiber? Beans, lentils, flax seeds, chia seeds, quinoa, fruits and vegetables. Sometimes it is necessary to include a fiber supplement in your diet to ensure you are getting enough.

Pamela Langenderfer is a Naturopathic Physician and Licensed acupuncturist. She is the co-owner of Lakeside Holistic Health, PLLC, with locations in Coeur d'Alene and Liberty Lake. Please visit our website at www.lakesideholistic.com or call our office at (208) 758-0568 for more information.