Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition 3204: What is Seed Cycling? The Benefits of Seed Cycling and How to Seed Cycle on Hormone Health
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Nov 28, 2025 Explore the intriguing practice of seed cycling, a method designed to promote hormonal balance for women, especially those with PCOS. Delve into how specific seeds—like flax and sunflower—might influence estrogen and progesterone levels. Discover nutritional benefits, such as omega-3s and vitamin E, and their potential effects on inflammation and hormone regulation. Neal Malik shares practical tips on how to incorporate seeds into your diet and discusses the current research landscape and its limitations.
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Seed Cycling Targets Cycle Phases
- Seed cycling pairs specific seeds with menstrual phases to potentially influence estrogen and progesterone.
- Evidence is limited and mainly studied in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, not the general population.
How To Do Seed Cycling Early Cycle
- Eat 1 tablespoon ground flax and 1 tablespoon ground pumpkin daily during days 1–15 of the cycle.
- Grind seeds first so your body can absorb and metabolize their nutrients more easily.
Luteal Phase Seed Routine
- From days 16–28, eat 1 tablespoon raw sunflower seeds and 1 tablespoon sesame seeds daily.
- Keep portions small because seeds are calorie-dense and may cause allergies in some people.