Hundreds of Instagram reels are telling you to start sipping spearmint tea or take a cold water shower to improve hormonal imbalance. But do these remedies actually work? Experts warn us against falling for these feel-good quick fixes online simply because hormonal imbalance is caused by several triggers and each of these have different reactions in different people. While customising therapy plans, one should also not lose sight of the umbrella lifestyle statement of a nutritious diet, exercise and stress management.
Two experts from Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, Dr Subhash Kumar Wangnoo, head of the Apollo Centre for Obesity, Diabetes, and Endocrinology (ACODE), and Dr Richa Chaturvedi, Senior Consultant, Endocrinology, may help you navigate your hormonal imbalance issues.
What are the symptoms of hormonal imbalance in your body?
Wangnoo: Symptoms vary from person to person and are dependent on many factors. In general, it could be irregular periods, weight gain, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, mood disturbances, fatigue, hot flashes, sleep issues, hairfall and digestion issues. However, a problem can only be ascertained after tests. A blood test is one of the most common ways to determine testosterone, estrogen, cortisol and thyroid levels.
Which instagram claims do we need to ignore?
Wangnoo: There is talk about a cold shower reducing cortisol levels, increasing dopamine, improving mental clarity, reducing depression and anxiety and boosting insulin sensitivity. A shower, hot or cold is just invigorating. There’s nothing beyond that.
There are claims that a mix of lime, coconut water, filtered water, aloe vera juice and sea salt boosts functioning of adrenal glands and improves hormonal imbalance. But adrenal glands function normally on their own, they do not need help. Even the use of apple cider vinegar and curcumin is overrated and without scientific basis. There are theories about slow weighted workouts and walks impacting cortisol levels. While workouts can definitely help in weight reduction and by extension restore hormonal balance, any kind of exercise should have the same result. Besides, high cortisol levels need to be evaluated and treated properly and not at all to be taken lightly.
Several instagram reels talk about how high estrogen can lead to heavy periods, PMS, mood changes and low estrogen can lead to low mood and low energy. How do we know about the right levels of estrogen?
An estradiol (E2) test measures levels of the hormone E2 in a person’s blood. It could be physiological like in post-menopausal females or due to a variety of other reasons. You have to manage it according to the cause of the disease.
I am a 30-year-old woman and suffering from PCOD ((Polycystic Ovarian Disease). Are there natural ways to restore my hormonal balance?
Chaturvedi: Medical interventions such as hormonal contraceptives, anti-androgen medications or insulin-sensitising drugs might be necessary based on individual symptoms and health status. But for an umbrella approach, you can modify your diet by focussing on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Reduce processed foods, sugars and refined carbohydrates. Chronic stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances, so destress with meditation, deep breathing and mindfulness practices. Prioritise good sleep hygiene as insufficient sleep can disrupt hormone production and exacerbate PCOS symptoms.
Can PCOD/PCOS result in low sex drive?
Chaturvedi: Fluctuations in hormone levels throughout the menstrual cycle can affect libido. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is often linked with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. High insulin levels lead to hormonal imbalances, which may affect libido. Therefore, PCOS can contribute to a decrease in libido or low sex drive through several interconnected mechanisms, not singly.
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
