Our bodies are intricate systems where various functions work in harmony to maintain overall health. One crucial aspect of this delicate balance is hormone regulation. Hormones play a vital role in controlling numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, mood, and reproductive health. To support the intricate dance of hormones within our bodies, it is essential to focus on proper nutrition and digestive health.
Minerals play a vital role in supporting hormonal health. Every endocrine organ has a specific mineral that is the primary mineral which it is dependent on. Let’s take a look at the key minerals needed to support healthy hormones and hormonal balance.
Thyroid – Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis. Iodine if found in seafood, kelp, and in iodized salt. If you typically use kosher and sea salt you may be benefitting from some very beneficial minerals however these salts do not contain iodine. In this case you might consider a kelp supplement or iodine drops but consult with your doctor first.
Prostate, Ovaries and Testes – These organs primarily rely on zinc and selenium for optimum function and production of sex hormones. Just one Brazil nut contains the recommended daily allowance of selenium. Zinc is multi-faceted and is also a primary mineral for supporting the immune system.
Pituitary – The pituitary gland regulates growth, metabolism, and reproduction through several hormones that it produces. Its primary mineral is manganese. Manganese helps build healthy bones and cartilage, heals wounds, and supports immune function. It can be found in shellfish such as mussels, oysters and clams, beans and legumes, hazelnuts, peanuts and peanut butter, spinach, and pineapple.
Pancreas – The winning mineral for the pancreas is chromium. The pancreas has two roles when it comes to function. The exocrine role of the pancreas is to produce enzymes to help digest food, particularly protein. The endocrine role is to produce insulin which controls blood sugar levels. Support your pancreas with foods that contain chromium including shellfish, broccoli, grapes, red meat, pork, chicken, and turkey, Brazil nuts, and wine.
Adrenals – The adrenal glands are small but mighty. They are walnut sized glands that sits on top of the kidneys and are responsible for many functions including blood pressure regulation, cortisol production, metabolism and immune support. The adrenals rely on copper as their primary mineral. Copper can be found in shellfish, nuts, potatoes, organ meats, leafy greens, dried fruits, cocoa and black pepper.
While each organ has a primary mineral that supports its overall function, there are many other nutrients that play a role in producing healthy hormones. Consuming a diet based on real food that is nutrient dense and is as close to its original source as possible, is the key to maintaining healthy hormone production.
