Progesterone is a hormone (no surprise there) produced in the ovaries that acts as a natural anti-inflammatory with skin benefits too. It does this by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (substances secreted by cells). It works in tandem with estrogen, though each hormone has its time to shine during your cycle.
The Secret to Skin Health: Progesterone
While progesterone most often gets props for producing the enviable pregnancy glow, it is responsible for all occurrences of dewy, luminous skin thanks to its role in oil production. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help skin repair itself and prevent wrinkles and other signs of skin aging (which are caused by the effects of stress, which in turn cause the inflammation the progesterone helps protect against).
Like any hormone, progesterone can cause a few problems when it’s out of balance and those problems inevitably show up in your skin. If your levels are too low, you may notice your skin is dry, sensitive, or slower to heal. This is why your skin requires a little more Tender Loving Care (TLC) when you’re on your period when progesterone levels are naturally at their lowest.
On the flip side, excess sebum brought on by rising progesterone levels in the second half of your cycle or during pregnancy can cause acne or other existing skin issues to flare up. Like all things hormonal, the key to glowing skin is to do your best to keep your progesterone levels happy and healthy.
Which Foods Are High In Progesterone?
There are plenty of sources of plant-based progesterone you can turn to instead of taking supplements. Some progesterone-rich foods include:
1. Bananas
It is a good source of magnesium, which is involved in the production of the progesterone hormone. Magnesium is also known to regulate the pituitary gland, which in turn regulates the production of hormones that in turn regulate the production of progesterone.
2. Walnuts
It is a source of selenium, which has the potential to increase progesterone levels in the body.
3. Okra (Ladies’ Finger)
Okra aka bhindi is a rich source of magnesium and zinc, which are essential nutrients for balancing progesterone hormones. Magnesium is required to ensure healthy ovulation, as without ovulation your body is likely to produce less progesterone than normal.
4. Pumpkin seeds
It comes loaded with zinc, which is needed for the body to utilize available progesterone. Zinc increases Follicle follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which supports healthy ovulation, which in turn triggers the ovaries to produce progesterone. In fact, in men, it is found to be excellent for sperm motility and health.
5. Almonds
Nothing spells Vitamin E like Almonds. Vitamin E acts as the progesterone-sparing agent, as it safeguards progesterone against the toxic effects of estrogen. It basically balances the harmful effects of estrogen.
Every hormone has a part to play in all stages of your health – and progesterone is no different. Even if pregnancy is not on your radar, consider taking regular looks at this hormone to make sure it is happy, balanced, and working to keep your skin and health at their very best.