The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced updated guidance on hormone therapy for menopause. They stated in the press release, “Women have used HRT products for decades to relieve menopausal symptoms. However, their use plummeted in the early 2000s when the FDA applied boxed warnings following a Women’s Health Initiative study that found a statistically non-significant increase in the risk of breast cancer diagnosis. The average age of women in the study was 63 years — over a decade past the average age of a woman experiencing menopause — and study participants were given a hormone formulation no longer in common use.” Many women report life-changing results from taking HRT for symptoms caused by menopause. They often report having more energy, better skin and hair, better sleep, higher libido, and more. This is terrific news for women who have had wonderful results from these products.

While we are excited that this administration is addressing women’s health issues, taking hormones and drugs for menopause may not work for everyone. At Moms Across America, we strongly encourage women to learn how to listen to their bodies and try exercise, clean food and water, and go to natural remedies and whole foods as medicine first.

We must ask ourselves, why are so many women having such a difficult time during menopause? It is always important to address the root cause before managing just the symptoms. While getting rid of hot flashes, night sweats, or mood swings sounds appealing, these symptoms are the body’s way of signaling that something isn’t right.. And when you quiet it, oftentimes these symptoms will manifest elsewhere. Hormone imbalance is often caused by mineral deficiency, a system overburdened by toxins, lack of nutrient-dense foods, and/or poor gut health.

How to Address the Root Causes of Hormone Imbalance

1. Consume nutrient-dense, nourishing foods. Pasture-raised liver and other organ meats are terrific sources of retinol (true vitamin A), B vitamins, and minerals. If you don’t like how they taste, try freeze-dried organ capsules.
   
   Bone broth is rich in collagen, gelatin, and minerals. Gelatin works as a glue to help seal, strengthen, and restore the gut lining, making it the ultimate leaky-gut healer.
   
   Pasture-raised eggs are full of healthy cholesterol and fat-soluble vitamins, all of which are vital for hormone synthesis.
   
   Raw dairy is rich in lactoferrin, which promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, and is key in reducing oxidative stress, causing inflammation in the body. By reducing oxidative stress in the body, lactoferrin eases the burden on the adrenal glands, which regulate cortisol production and overall resilience to stress. This is crucial for balanced sex hormones. Lactoferrin also binds to excess iron in the body and improves absorption when deficient. Organic fruit rich in vitamin C, such as kiwi, acerola berries, and camu camu, are key. The adrenal glands use an enormous amount of vitamin C to produce hormones. If you are deficient, the adrenals become overworked, and ultimately contribute to fatigue, anxiety, and hormone imbalance.
   
   Fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut or kimchi are also full of beneficial enzymes that promote a healthy gut.
   
   
   
   
2. Use herbal remedies. Herbal blends such as Earthley’s Natural Balance are extremely effective at supporting hormones and energy levels. Earthley’s powerful blend combines herbs that work synergistically to support balance and resilience during menopause. Dandelion Root helps detoxify and strengthen the liver. The liver is vital for hormone regulation and the metabolism of estrogen. A well-supported liver means smoother hormone transitions and fewer fluctuations. Ashwagandha, a renowned adaptogen, helps the body adapt to stress while supporting the adrenal glands. This can ease fatigue, anxiety, and mood swings often associated with hormonal changes. Shatavari Root, known as the “queen of herbs” for women’s health in Ayurvedic medicine, helps balance estrogen levels naturally and supports overall vitality. Catnip offers gentle calming effects, soothes restlessness, and promotes more restful sleep, something many women struggle with during menopause. Licorice Root supports adrenal health, helps maintain steady cortisol levels, and contributes to improved energy and mood stability.
   
   
3. Eliminate alcohol. Alcohol interferes with liver function, causes blood sugar spikes and crashes, stresses the adrenals, disrupts insulin levels, and affects sleep.
   
   
4. Reduce processed sugar. Sugar causes rapid spikes and crashes in blood glucose, leading to overstimulation of insulin. High insulin levels can disrupt the balance of estrogen and progesterone, contributing to weight gain and fatigue.
   
   
5. Remove screens one hour before bed, and wear blue light blocking glasses in the evening. Screen time negatively impacts sleep. Good quality sleep is imperative for overall health and well-being.
   
   
6. Prioritize movement and strength training. Exercise stimulates endorphins, lowers inflammation, and helps regulate cortisol production. Declining estrogen can also lead to muscle loss and decreased bone density. Strength training supports muscle growth and prevents osteoporosis.

While hormone therapy may help some women, true long-term wellness comes from addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalance. By nourishing the body with nutrient-dense foods, supporting gut health, using herbal allies, reducing sugar and alcohol, prioritizing sleep, and engaging in regular movement and strength training, women can support their hormones naturally and build resilience during this life transition.

At Moms Across America, we believe in empowering women to listen to their bodies, make informed choices, and embrace natural solutions first.