When chatting with my fine foxes over in my free and private Sexy Food Therapy Fan Page , I know that many of them are suffering from hormone imbalances, so clearly being that hormones is a part of my jam, I wanted to do a video all about it.
You see, for the longest time, omega 6 has gotten a bad wrap and rightfully so when you factor in that the average North American is consuming up to thirty times the amount that they should be. And when we offset our omega 3 to omega 6 balance, it produces inflammatory effects within the body. But wait…are all omega 6 fatty acids bad for us? Nope and today I wanted to talk to you about:
The omega 6 that’s great for hormone balance.
And what is it? Evening Primrose oil. But what makes it different than the rest? Well, take a look at this week’s video to find out more. Now if you’re just interested in getting the Coles notes version, then here’s a recap:
- An overconsumption of omega 6 fatty acids in North America come from primarily foods like vegetable oils (think canola oil for example)
- Omega 3 and omega 6 oils go on to produce inflammatory or anti-inflammatory prostaglandins
- Prostaglandins are made from fatty acids and they do everything from supporting our immune function to regulating our hormones
- Most omega 6 prostaglandins are known as “series 2 prostaglandins” which create inflammatory effects but this is their job as they help with swelling, clotting and healing wounds
- The caveat: It’s needed in SMALL amounts only, so our overconsumption here in North America is not good!
- Omega 3 prostaglandins are known as “series 3 prostagladins” that contain EPA and DHA, which slow down the inflammatory response.
- Direct sources of omega 3 are this are fish oils for example.
- Evening Primrose oil (EPO) is an omega 6 but it’s known as a “series 1 prostaglandin” that is known to halt inflammation dead in its tracts”
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- EPO is rich in gamma-linolenic-acid (GLA) and benefits include:
- Reduction in PMS
- Heavy periods
- Insulin resistance
- Testosterone
- Balance estrogen & progesterone
- To get the right dose that’s right for you, please consult your alternative care practitioner for a full plan for maximum results. You can also check out the various services I offer to see which one is right for you.
Another rich source of GLA comes from blue-green algae like spirulina. So today I made my Green Monster Hummus that’s tastier than it sounds. If you’re a little adverse to the taste of spirulina, no sweat, simply add in one teaspoon versus two! See the recipe below.