Natural Acne Solutions Foods To Remove For Clear Skin
NATURAL ACNE SOLUTIONS: FOODS TO REMOVE FOR CLEAR SKIN
2 / OCTOBER / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns in developed nations, and it can affect people of all ages. While there are several factors that influence the presence of acne - including hormones, stress, genetics, bacteria, microbiome health and inflammation — one of the most influential and often underrated ways to support and treat acne is through diet (which is often driving the inflammation).
There is a significant amount of research to support that what you eat affects your skin, and by reducing or removing these foods I have seen significant changes in my clients prevalence of acne as well as their confidence.
UNDERSTANDING ACNE AND ITS ROOT CAUSES
Before diving into diet, it's important to understand that acne is a complex condition. It can be influenced by hormones, stress, bacteria, your gut microbiome and even environmental factors, but inflammation is a key driver of acne development. Modern treatments like antibiotics and Accutane are often prescribed, but these can come with serious side effects, including antibiotic resistance and mental health concerns.
Luckily, there is growing research showing that a holistic approach — particularly focusing on what we eat — can be highly effective in managing and even preventing acne. So what are these foods and how do they affect your skin?
The Dairy and Acne Connection
Dairy, especially milk, has long been suspected to play a role in acne development. While dairy can be a good source of calcium and vitamin D, it also contains growth hormones and proteins that can trigger hormonal imbalances, leading to an increase in sebum production and inflammation, both of which are precursors to acne.
A 2021 study published in the International Journal of Dermatology concluded that dairy intake, particularly skim milk, is associated with an increased risk of acne, potentially due to the presence of whey proteins and growth factors . Additionally, the systemic inflammation caused by dairy can exacerbate skin conditions, making breakouts worse.
What to Do About It:
- Try eliminating or reducing dairy from your diet for a few weeks and see how your skin responds.
- Consider plant-based alternatives like almond or coconut milk that don't contain the same hormones and proteins that might trigger acne. Or focus on raw dairy products that are less likely to contain the nasties and is much easier to digest and absorb for the body.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids: The Inflammation Trigger (aka seed oils)
While omega-6 fatty acids are essential for the body, modern diets are disproportionately high in these fats, primarily due to processed foods and vegetable/seed oils. This imbalance creates a pro-inflammatory environment in the body, which can directly influence acne formation.
A systematic review published in Lipids in Health and Disease found that an excess of omega-6 fatty acids, relative to anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, can worsen inflammatory skin conditions like acne . When you consume too many omega-6-rich foods, such as corn oil, soybean oil, and fried foods, it amplifies inflammation in the body, making skin issues harder to manage.
What to Do About It:
- Reduce your intake of processed foods high in omega-6 oils.
- Increase your consumption of anti-inflammatory omega-3s, found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and fatty fish like salmon, to balance the ratio of fats in your diet.
High-Glycemic Index Foods and Acne
Foods with a high glycemic index (GI) — such as white bread, sugary snacks, and soft drinks — cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. These spikes prompt a release of insulin, which in turn stimulates androgen hormones and increases sebum production, both contributing to clogged pores and acne formation.
Research has consistently shown that people who consume a low-glycemic diet experience fewer acne outbreaks. A 2007 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that participants on a low-GI diet saw significant improvements in acne over a 12-week period . By keeping your blood sugar levels stable, you can help control hormone levels and reduce inflammation.
What to Do About It:
- Opt for whole grains, vegetables, and fruits with low to moderate glycemic indexes, such as quinoa, sweet potatoes, and berries.
- Focus on high protein foods and good sources of omega 3 fats to pair with the low-GI carbs to stabilise blood sugars.
- Limit refined sugars and carbohydrates that can trigger insulin spikes.
Holistic Skin Solutions for Clearer Skin
To get the best results for your skin, focus on adopting a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet. By reducing your intake of dairy, inflammatory omega-6 fats, and high-glycemic foods, you can create an internal environment that supports clear, healthy skin. Combine these dietary changes with other holistic practices like stress management and proper skincare for a comprehensive approach to managing acne.
While everyone’s skin responds differently, taking charge of your diet is a powerful step toward achieving clearer, glowing skin without relying on harsh medications.
If you’re wanting to get to the root cause of your acne and want my step-by-step approach to clear glowing skin from within, check out my free masterclass here to give your skin the ultimate glow up!
REFERENCES
- Smith, L. M., et al. (2021). "Dairy intake and acne: A systematic review." International Journal of Dermatology.
- Stangl, G., et al. (2016). "Acne and Nutrition: A Systematic Review." ResearchGate.
- Smith, R. M., et al. (2018). "The role of omega-6 fatty acids in inflammation and acne." Lipids in Health and Disease.
- American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2007). "Effect of low-glycemic diet on acne." PubMed Central.
- Bowe, W. P., et al. (2016). "Diet and acne revisited: dairy and high glycemic index foods." The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!
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10 Reasons You Need To Try A Float Tank
10 REASONS YOU NEED TO BE FLOATING (like yesterday)
18 / SEPTEMBER / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
Floating has become increasingly popular in recent years, for all kinds of reasons (many of which are listed below). If you’re not sure what floating is… healthline defines it as “a sensory deprivation tank, also called an isolation tank or flotation tank, is used for restricted environmental stimulation therapy (REST). It is a dark, soundproof tank that is filled with a foot or less of salt water.”
That salt water is Epsom salts which allows you to float atop of it and contain high doses of magnesium which is part of what provides such amazing benefits.
I remember being a little nervous about getting into a pod, I’m not overly claustrophobic, but hey… still a bit strange. However, closing my eyes and shutting off from the world for an hour was incredible. I make sure I go at least once a month. My favourite local one is Infinity Float (who have also given me a discount to pass onto you for 20% OFF: ‘SHW20’.
10 REASONS YOU'LL LOVE FLOATING
- Reduced Stress + Anxiety: floating in a sensory-deprivation tank induces a state of deep relaxation, helping to alleviate stress + anxiety and promote a sense of calm for the nervous system (aka reduced cortisol)
- Pain Relief: the buoyancy of the saltwater can ease muscle and joint pain, making floating a therapeutic option for those with chronic pain conditions - loved this for my knee!
- Improved Sleep: regular floatation sessions have been linked to better sleep quality... Hello, you are floating in 550kg of magnesium, and I slept like a baby after mine
- Enhanced Mental Clarity: sensory deprivation allows the mind to quiet down, fostering mental clarity, improved focus, and heightened creativity.
- Muscle Recovery: floating is a tool for muscle recovery, as it can reduce lactic acid buildup and accelerate the healing of muscle tissue, and improves circulation
- Strengthened Immune System: the relaxation response triggered by floating may contribute to a strengthened immune system, helping the body defend against illnesses.
- Mind-Body Connection: floating provides an opportunity for introspection and a deeper connection between the mind and body, aiding in self-discovery and personal growth.
- Relaxation: floating provides a unique opportunity for mindful relaxation, allowing us to disconnect from external world which we very rarely give ourselves the opportunity to do.
- Elevated Mood: floating stimulates the release of endorphins, promoting a positive mood and potentially acting as a natural antidepressant.
- Enhanced Creativity: the sensory-deprivation environment can encourage creative thinking and problem-solving, making it a valuable tool for artists and professionals seeking innovative ideas.
I particularly noticed the creativity and left feeling super recharged and re-energised! I cannot wait to go back to @infinityfloat again!
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!
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What Your Food Cravings Are Really Trying To Tell You
WHAT YOUR FOOD CRAVINGS ARE REALLY TRYING TO TELL YOU
4 / SEPTEMBER / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
Whether it’s chocolate, chips, peanut butter, a steak or even a piece of fruit there’s something your body is trying to communicate with you when you have cravings.
I recently went away with some friends and it was so interesting to observe the cravings they were gravitating towards. After sharing with me what a stressful time they’ve been having (work + family stress) it was obvious to me their cortisol levels would be in a chronically elevated state and they were living in fight or flight.
What they didn’t realise is how incredibly intelligent their body was at ensuring they were getting the extra top up of nutrients they needed.
You see, when we are in a state of fight or flight (aka sympathetic nervous system dominance); we are more stressed - the more stressed we are, the more of certain nutrients we need.
Not only that, but high cortisol levels will suppress the immune system, cause the body to run primarily on glucose and use up a lot of your nutrient stores much faster. Hence why the carb cravings can go through the roof during this time.
So what was my friend craving, and what does it mean?
WHAT YOUR CRAVINGS MEAN
CRAVING CHOCOLATE?
Chances are if you’re craving chocolate, there’s a magnesium deficiency. The more stressed we are the more magnesium your body uses. Chocolate (particularly dark chocolate) contains high levels of magnesium.
50g of a high quality dark chocolate often contains more magnesium than most good quality magnesium supplements. I recommend getting at least 70%+ dark chocolate with no/low sugar, but I do also recommend that a high quality magnesium supplement is taken daily.
Solution: Magnesium bisglycinate is my go to (to avoid funky bowel movement changes and to calm the nervous system) - dosage starting around 300 mg.
CRAVING SALTY FOODS?
Chips, pretzels, salted nuts… all feedback your adrenals are constantly being stimulated. What do the adrenal glands do? Produce cortisol and adrenaline - hello nervous system again (starting to get the picture?).
Salt isn’t ‘bad’ like we’ve been led to believe. Sodium is one of the most required nutrients in the body, it’s an electrolyte and we need it to keep us hydrated. We’re 70% water after all and detoxification, mood, energy… everything is negatively impacted if we aren’t in a hydrated state.
So, having the salt isn’t the issue, it is normally what the salt is covering - e.g. the fried potato or the gluten filled pretzel. Salted nuts are fine, but often it is the overconsumption of these that affects our goals.
Solution: add kelp or natural salt to your meals, or to your water (yes I know that sounds weird), which is why my go-to is to drink electrolytes. Particularly around my workout or first thing in the morning.
CRAVING FRUIT?
This can be a combination of factors; one it could be the carbs you’re craving to calm down the nervous system (yes they do this). Or it could be the nutrients inside that particular fruit.
In my friend's case, I think it was both. They were eating mandarins like there was no tomorrow! What are mandarins high in? Vitamin C. So not only was the body getting a hit of carbs to help calm down the nervous system from the sugars in the mandarins, but also the extra immune system support from the vitamin C.
Vitamin C can halve our cortisol levels which is great, because chronically elevated cortisol (as aforementioned) suppresses the immune system.
Solution: in periods of higher stress, or just as an added layer of support add in a high vitamin C piece of fruit to your day (e.g. mandarins, oranges, kiwifruit etc), or supplement with 1000 mg of vitamin C.
FINAL THOUGHTS
You can see that for my friend (as for many of my clients), the cravings were all supporting one core imbalance - nervous system dysfunction.
The body is always trying to get back to homeostasis - a place of balance - where the body feels safe and regulated. There are many other cravings that can mean different things too and I am happy to dive into those in another blog (let me know in the comments if you’d like that). But I hope this helps give you a starting point to understand that cravings aren’t there to sabotage you, they’re feedback from the body.
So next time you get a craving, ask yourself… What is my body trying to communicate with me?
With love,
Sheree xo
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!
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How To Get Rid Of Sugar Cravings For Good
HOW TO GET RID OF SUGAR CRAVINGS FOR GOOD
21 / AUGUST / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
Tired? You’ll crave sugar.
Hungry for too long? You’ll crave sugar
Stressed out? You’ll crave sugar
There’s not many instances where our body won’t crave sugar if we aren’t giving it what it needs. But your body isn’t trying to work against you…
See, sugar is a quick source of energy, it will pick up your blood sugars, goes directly to the brain and boom… you feel less tired, less hungry and often a little less stressed (because let’s face it, sugar is yum!)
BUT… here’s the catch. It doesn’t last long, and before you know it, you’re back feeling tired, hungry and probably more stressed because you wished you hadn’t indulged in all of that chocolate.
CRAVINGS ARE TYPICALLY DRIVEN BY ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:
- Blood Sugar Dysregulation: aka you’re not eating to support your insulin levels, causing a blood sugar rollercoaster, driving moods, energy, hormones and hunger to be all over the show (and feel out of control)
- Gut Dysbiosis: a fancy way of saying you either have too little good bugs, too many bad bugs or a combination of both. It is often too many bad bugs that are driving the sugar cravings because that’s what feeds them and allows them to multiply
- Fight/Flight/Freeze: a wired, tired, or frozen nervous system means you’re operating out of a sympathetic state - aka survival. When we live here, we rely on glucose (sugar) to function and therefore need more and crave more carbs to help keep ourselves going and ‘calm’ or as close to it as possible.
None of these are optimal ways to be living, and many of the clients I work with are dealing with a combination of one or more of the above.
SO HERE'S WHERE WE START…
Since all of these root causes are a form of stress on the body, we want to help by mitigating the stress and calming down the system. We also know the more stressed we are, the more magnesium we use.
So we start by adding in extra magnesium to your diet, whether this is in the form of a supplement (ideally start with 300mg of magnesium bisglycinate - this is the most bioavailable form of magnesium and won't give you the runs). Or get a high quality dark chocolate with no nasty ingredients, at least 70% cocoa or cacao and very low in sugar (no artificial sweeteners either). Take this daily and watch your sugar cravings disappear.
Also for the month of September in the Conscious Wellness Collective our challenge is ‘CURB THE CRAVINGS’ click here for more info!
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!
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How To Avoid Poor Sleep
HOW TO AVOID POOR SLEEP
7 / AUGUST / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
When clients come to me wanting to heal their gut health, balance their hormones, shift stubborn weight, they are always focused on food, and exercise. And I don’t blame them, but unless you get your sleep right, you really aren’t going to get anywhere with the other two.
Sleep literally affects every single physiological function in your body. By that I mean get enough sleep, every single thing your body does from how strong you are to how productive and happy you can be is enhanced. Skimp on sleep or deprive your body of sleep (even just one night), will negatively affect every single function in your body.
Which is why a nighttime routine is so important. Good news is, I’ve made things super simple for you, by sharing 5 ways you can support yourself sleeping better below!
MY TIPS FOR BETTER SLEEP
- Power Down - at least 2 hours before bed
Create your own nighttime routine by dimming the lights and closing down your tech buddies – smartphones, laptops, and TVs should hit that do not disturb mode at least 2 hours before bedtime, and ideally be kept out of the bedroom. Bright light is like a wakeup call to your brain + body, so it’s key to start sending the opposite message - that we are powering down more than just our devices.
The blue light from our devices only makes things worse, it tells the brain there is a party going on, so if you really can’t do the two hours make sure the lights are dim to increase your melatonin production and grab yourself some blue light blocking glasses. - Skip The Nightcap - the alcohol really doesn’t help you sleep
That glass of wine or two to unwind might seem like a simple way to shuteye, but once that buzz wears off, you’re prone to less restful sleep and more frequent awakenings.
Instead, replace the nightcap with some magnesium, a sleepy girl mocktail or even some of my favourite soul CBD sleepi gummies! (CODE: SHEREE) - Make the Bedroom for Rest + Play Only - create a sacred space
Your brain is triggered unconsciously by your environment and the things it does consistently. If your brain is constantly associating your bed with work, the kids sleeping in it, or full of device time, it isn’t going to feel rested when it enters the room.
Whilst I am not here to judge, the science really does support keeping the bedroom for sleep + sex - both of which require you to unwind and relax! So think about how to make your bedroom more of a relaxing, restful and maybe somewhat raunchy space. - Keep It Cool & Quiet - temperate control is key
Although we may think we wanna be all snuggly and warm (believe me I still struggle with this). Our body craves a specific temperature for optimal sleep, and it is more on the cool side.
Ideally our room is between 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit or 15-19 degrees Celsius, to optimise your sleep environment. Also, eliminating any disruptive sounds is key, so think about incorporating a sound machine that plays soothing white, brown, or pink noises. I personally love playing binaural deep sleep beats on a sleep timer to fall asleep to. - Declutter the Mind Before Bed - avoid the wired yet tired feeling
Michael A. Grandner, Ph.D., an expert in psychiatry from the Behavioral Sleep Medicine program at the University of Pennsylvania suggests if you often find your thoughts racing when you're in bed, it may be because you haven't taken the time to process your day. This can keep your cortisol levels high, reducing your melatonin production causing you to struggle to fall asleep.
To quote Grandner, "a more effective approach would be to dedicate some time in the evening to reflect on your day, create tomorrow's to-do lists, and clear your mental clutter. Then, climb into bed." I personally love journaling on gratitudes and planning out my next day.
Establishing a nighttime routine or making these changes can feel tough, but they are 100000000000% worth it when you think of the impact even one good night’s sleep can have on your health. So start small and slowly implement these in the months to come!
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!
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30 Wellness Habits For Optimal Health And Longevity
30 WELLNESS HABITS FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH + LONGEVITY
24 / JULY / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
As I entered my 3rd decade on this planet this month, I thought it only fitting to share some of the wellness habits and hacks that I plan to continue into my years ahead (and ones I wish I had started when I was younger)...
Your body is a temple, and in order for me to fulfil my mission and serve as deeply as I know I am meant to, it is important that I treat it as one.
30 WELLNESS HABITS
- Practice gratitude daily
- Get 7-9 hours sleep
- Hit the sauna 3 - 4 x week for 20+ minutes each time
- Strength train 4 x week
- Get out into nature often, daily if possible
- Wake with the sunshine and set up your circadian rhythm for success
- Say NO if it doesn’t feel aligned, you don’t have to please everybody
- Take cold showers daily (except when you’re on your bleed)
- Practise lymphatic drainage morning and evening
- Dance more, often and as if no one is watching
- Take creatine, not just for your muscles, but for your brain health
- Walk after big meals to balance your blood sugars
- Avoid naked carbohydrates (always put some clothes on - pair carbs with fats or protein to slow the blood sugar spike)
- Only take medications when absolutely necessary, there is almost always a natural solution
- Get your 8+ hugs a day
- Practise self-awareness, manage the stories in your mind, reflect and act from a conscious state and sense of self so you’re always growing and moving forward in a postive direction
- Ask for help when you need it, there is no shame, and you know you’d do the same for others
- Listen to your body, it knows best and is always trying to communicate with you
- Be mindful in the morning even if it is just for 5 minutes, it sets up your day
- Drink your coffee 90 minutes after waking and after a high protein breakfast
- Fast for a reset, to prevent jet lag and to heal your gut - daily overnight for 12 hours is also helpful
- Get your 7.5K+ steps in for your mental and metabolic health
- Magnesium is your best friend, don’t go a day without it
- Surround yourself with people who are where you want to be, going the places you want to go and constantly challenge you in the best way
- Practise giving more than you receive, but be able to receive too
- Ditch the perfume, receipts, plastic bottles and containers
- Breath consciously, in different ways, it controls your state
- Smile, laugh, pray
- Eat your leafy greens, and when you think you’ve eaten enough, eat more
- LOVE, love hard, love big and don’t be afraid to love again
FINAL THOUGHTS
Whilst these may not be your conventional ‘wellness habits’ they are tools/lessons/tips for your mind, body and soul. I can honestly say that I am so proud of myself and grateful to live by these.
Wellness to me is a way of life. It isn’t just ticking a box, nor is it doing it to be ‘trendy’. I genuinely love living this way and I am incredibly happy for it.
Not all of these 30 may resonate with you, and some may take you many more years to learn, or you may be screeds ahead in some. But I am a huge fan of nailing the basics.
Move your body. Nourish your mind. Love from your soul. In my 30 years (which may seem very young), this is the key to fulfilment, happiness and success.
I’d love to know what you’d add to the list… share it with me in the comments below or email me at sheree@shereehannahwellness.com.
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!
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Thirty Flirty And Thriving Letter
THIRTY, FLIRTY AND THRIVING - A LETTER TO MY 13 YEAR OLD SELF FROM 30 YEAR OLD ME
10 / JULY / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
Dear Little One,
Right now, you don’t feel so little. So much is changing, your skin is breaking out, your hormones are going haywire, all you want is attention from the cute boy a couple years older than you at school and your parents just separted.
Life is f*cken tough. Yet, you also feel invincible.
I look at you through my eyes now and see the strength you had, the resilience you showed and the confidence you shared with the world even all those years ago.
It’s funny how I am actually in awe of you. I remember how loud, outgoing and extroverted you were, unafriad to be seen, heard and lead. You’ve always been this way, even as a 5 year old. And I absolutely adore you for it.
Somewhere along the way I lost that part of you… I let the judgement of others, the disappointments, missed opportunities, the fear take over and get the better of us, and for that I am so sorry.
I let others dim your light, knock your confidence and taught you to hide in the shadows instead of owning your worth.
It has taken almost a decade of healing, opening old wounds, reliving old memories, acknowledging all parts of ourself even the ugly ones to really step back into a space where we know that we are truly loved and enough simply because we exist, regardless of any kind of external validation or expectations.
You are a diamond… FUCKEN PRICELESS and anyone who tells you otherwise isn’t worth a second thought. I am so sorry that I didn’t always have your back on this, but thank you for being the example I needed in my life to see that it has always been there.
I often think of the song ‘Little Me’ by Little Mix…
“I'd tell her to speak up, tell her to shout out, talk a bit louder, be a bit prouder
Tell her she's beautiful, wonderful, everything she doesn't see
You gotta speak up, you gotta shout out, and know that right here, right now
You can be beautiful, wonderful, anything you wanna be… Little me”
And think to myself - we all need to offer a little more kindness to ourselves, show more self-compassion and talk to ourselves like you’d talk to your younger self, the beautiful, innocent, sweet little one that sees the world through heart-centred lenses. What advice would you give yourself even if it was only going back a few years?
The funny thing is… My little one actually spoke her mind, showed up authentically and was happy to be a bright light for others to see. It was the later teen years, the bullying, the rejection, the eating disorder, the attempt to control my life through food, the heartbreak, the absent father that slowly made me recoil into my shell, but I am grateful as anything that she didn’t stay tucked away.
So on my 30th birthday, I celebrate you little one. I celebrate the fact that you were the only gift I needed and I am so happy that over the years I have reclaimed those parts of me that you always knew how to shine, piece by piece. With the help of family, friends, mentors and coaches.
Here is to showing up as our best selves, in every sense of the word. I see women every single day, every single age battling this sense of self worth. This need to be enough and believing it is something that comes from outside of them, when in reality the truth is, she’s always been there, you just needed to witness her.
So be brave, take the leap, become thirty, flirty and thriving or maybe its sixty, sexy and strong. Whatever your authentic self looks like, you owe it to her no matter what age or stage of life you are in to let your light shine bright. I know it can be scary, but you don’t have to do it alone.
I will leave you with some words of wisdom…
“You are loved just for being who you are, just for existing. You don’t have to do anything to earn it. Your shortcomings, your lack of self-esteem, physical perfection, or social and economic success—none of that matters. No one can take this love away from you, and it will always be here… We’re all just walking each other home.” - Ram Dass
With Love Always,
Sheree xo
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!
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The Moon And Your Menstrual Cycle
THE MOON + YOUR MENSTRUAL CYCLE
26 / JUNE / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
Science adding some confirmation to our inner knowings... just in time for the first full moon of the year!
Many of us (myself included), notice a connection to when we bleed and where the lunar cycle is at...
Majority of the population tend to ovulate around a full moon 🌕 (nowish) and bleed 🩸 around a new moon. Vice versa can also be true, and it is for me right now.
The menstrual cycle was shown to have statistical significance in being influenced by weekly and lunar rhythms according to this study done on 35,940 women over 3 years.
The menstrual cycle is influenced by weekly and lunar rhythms. Finally, something more than anecdotal evidence. A study assessing a total of 35,940 European and North American women aged 18-40 years reports statistical significance linking the menstrual cycle with the moon. The onset of menstruation was assessed in prospectively measured menstrual cycles (311,064 cycles) over 3 full years (2019-2021). Both weekly (circaseptan) and lunar (circalunar) rhythms were observed. Results noting most women with a cycle of 27 - 29 days get their periods on a Thursday or Friday. Those with cycles this length had the highest correlation with that of the lunar cycle.
WHAT THE RESEARCH TELLS US
Conclusion excerpt:
Although relatively small in amplitude, the weekly rhythm of menstruation was statistically significant. Menstruation occurs more often on Thursdays and Fridays than on other days of the week. This is particularly true for women whose cycles last between 27 and 29 days. Circalunar rhythmically was also statistically significant. However, it is less pronounced than the weekly rhythm.
My verdict? SCIENCE IS FINALLY CATCHING UP! This is something myself and many other holistic practitioners have witnessed in our clients for years. It’s currently a full moon 🌕 and I am on my bleed 🩸and a lot of women will be ovulating (vice versa is often true for a new moon) What are your thoughts? Are you in sync?
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!
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The Nutrient Your Hormones Need To Thrive!
THE NUTRIENT YOUR HORMONES NEED TO THRIVE!
12 / JUNE / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
You need protein for a healthy menstrual cycle... it really is that simple, but this is one of the biggest things I see women get wrong as a holistic hormone coach
Skimping on the protein, especially at breakfast can cause hormonal havoc, driving up the cortisol levels and dysregulating your blood sugar levels. This is also why skipping breakfast altogether also isn’t helpful (I’m looking at you intermittent fasting).
Ideally, you're aiming for at least 1.5g/kg ideal body weight per day at an absolute minimum. Tbh, I actually have my clients on a fair bit more than that, but it is a good starting point.
SO WHY IS PROTEIN SO IMPORTANT FOR OUR HORMONES?
Proteins are the building blocks of life, and when it comes to your menstrual health, they act as key players in maintaining hormonal balance and overall well-being.
Adequate protein intake provides the amino acids necessary for hormone synthesis (making your hormones), helping regulate the delicate dance of estrogen and progesterone throughout your cycle.
This not only aids in a smoother menstrual experience but also contributes to mitigating common issues like irregular periods and hormonal fluctuations.
Furthermore, proteins are your allies in managing energy levels and preventing blood sugar spikes.
Stable blood sugar is a cornerstone of hormonal harmony, promoting a more predictable and comfortable menstrual cycle.
Use any of the examples below as a great foundation for making sure you get at least 30g of protein with your main meals (and yes ladies, I know 5 eggs is a lot! But one egg only has about 6g of protein)
Make protein a centrepiece of your meals, add some leafy greens and the rest tends to sort itself out!
30g of protein looks like 👇🏽
🥚 5 eggs
🍗 100g (3.5 oz) turkey
🍖 100g (3.5 oz) chicken breast
🥩 115g (4 oz) eye fillet steak
🥩 130g (4.5 oz) sirloin steak
🍣 150g (5.3 oz) salmon
🍨 285g (10 oz) greek yoghurt
*free range/organic where possible to minimise the amount of synthetic and added hormones
What is your favourite protein source? Let me know in the comments below.
P.S. Want support in mapping out your meals so you get enough protein every day, click here to chat with me about supporting your hormone health through balanced nutrition and lifestyle!
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!
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5 Toxins That Disrupt Hormones
5 SNEAKY TOXINS THAT ARE MESSING WITH YOUR HORMONES
29 / MAY / 2024
SHEREE'S HEALTH DIARIES
These sneaky toxins a.k.a endocrine disruptors appear in our day to day lives that add up significantly over time, overwhelming and overloading our endocrine (hormone) system, liver and detoxification with an increased toxic burden load on the body.
Which is why removing or reducing your exposure to even just one of these can really make an impact on your hormone health, because it is the things you do daily that make the biggest difference and a real game changer for your hormone health whether it to have symptom free periods or to support you through menopause.
HERE ARE THE TOP 5 THAT I RECOMMEND REMOVING/REDUCING:
- Plastics (BPA):
BPA can be found in many plastics like bottles, containers, and can infiltrate food and water.
Why you should avoid it: BPA imitates estrogen, disrupting the endocrine system and potentially leading to hormonal imbalances. Choose BPA-free plastics, or glass and stainless steel containers. - Fragrances (Phthalates):
Phthalates are present in cosmetics, perfumes, and personal care products like sunscreens, shampoo and skincare.
Why you should avoid them: Phthalates can interfere with hormone production and function. Opt for phthalate-free beauty and personal care items. - Non-Stick Cookware (PFOA):
Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) can be found in non-stick cookware like Teflon.
Why you should avoid it: PFOA disrupts the endocrine system, and the surfaces of these pans release toxic fumes when heated. Choose ceramic, cast iron, or stainless steel cookware instead. - Inorganic Fruits + Veggies (Pesticides):
Pesticides, commonly used in conventional farming, residue on fruits and vegetables can be ingested, and mimic estrogen or testosterone.
Choose organic produce or wash your veggies with salt, apple cider vinegar and water to reduce exposure to these pesticides. - Receipts (BPS):
BPS is an alternative to BPA used in thermal paper receipts.
Why you should avoid it: BPS can be absorbed through the skin and imitate estrogen, disrupting hormone balance.Minimise contact with thermal paper receipts and wash hands thoroughly after handling them.
It's not all or nothing when it comes to making these low-tox swaps. Start gradually, and with whatever comes most easily to you.
I'd love to know where you're starting, let me know below!
SHEREE BEAUMONT
Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach I empower women like you to transform their lives, understand their bodies and feel their best from the inside out!