Brain Health and Hormone Balance

Connection Between Brain Health and Hormone Balance

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Brain Health, Mood & Emotions Leave a Comment

The brain produces hormones and responds to hormones in the blood. When there is a hormone imbalance, it affects the brain. And, conversely, when brain health is compromised, it affects hormone levels. A healthy brain and hormone balance go hand in hand. We might only think about brain health when we get older and experience changes in memory or cognition. …

Balancing Hormones for Weight Loss

Why Eat Less and Exercise More is Bad Advice for Women

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Adrenal, PCOS, Thyroid, Thyroid & Hormone Balance, Weight Loss Leave a Comment

You’re not alone if you feel like your weight loss journey comes with an extra burden of guilt—from every angle, someone is telling you you’re doing something wrong. You’re eating too much. You’re not eating enough of the right foods. You’re not exercising enough. You must not be motivated enough.  The list goes on.  And while there are a million …

High Cortisol Levels and Cognitive Function

The Connection Between High Cortisol Levels and Cognitive Function

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Brain Health, Mood & Emotions, Stress Reduction Leave a Comment

Cortisol, the primary stress hormone released when your body perceives a threat, is essential for survival. In small doses, cortisol has beneficial effects, like waking you up in the morning, supporting energy, and helping the body deal with stress. The problem is that high cortisol levels over a prolonged period can lead to adverse health consequences, both physically and mentally. …

Sleep problems and your period

Sleep Problems Before and During Your Period

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Menstrual Cycle, Sleep Leave a Comment

Insomnia and sleep problems are pervasive in our culture, but did you know that women are more likely to experience poor sleep than men? The changes in female hormones through the menstrual cycle influence sleep patterns and may explain why sleep becomes more challenging for many women before or during their period.   Moreover, those with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual …

Brain Fog and Hormone Imbalance

Connection Between Brain Fog and Hormone Imbalance

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Balancing Your Hormones, Brain Health Leave a Comment

Are you living in a fog? Does your brain feel tired, and even everyday tasks are challenging because your brain isn’t cooperating with focus, thinking, and memory?  Brain fog is a common (but not to be considered normal) symptom for women, especially during hormonal change or imbalance, as hormones play a vital role in brain health and function. While a …

When to Take a Pregnancy Test

Am I Pregnant? When to Take a Pregnancy Test

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Fertility, Preconception & Fertility, Pregnancy Leave a Comment

The anticipation of finding out whether you are pregnant or not can be overwhelming. Whether planning a pregnancy or hoping to avoid one, your body sometimes tells you something’s up before you can test. Pregnancy symptoms can start as early as two weeks after conception, and many women experience at least some of them before they take a pregnancy test. …

what is vaginal steaming

What is Vaginal Steaming? Steaming Benefits Vs. Safety

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Balancing Your Hormones, Cycle Self Care™, Mind-Body, Wellbeing Leave a Comment

Are you curious about vaginal steaming? With deep cultural roots, vaginal steaming is an ancient practice that has recently become popular. Proponents of vaginal steaming claim it’s a “cure” for PMS, infertility, hormone imbalances, and more, but are these claims valid? And is it safe?  We all know the importance of self-care. This article will dive into vaginal steaming as …

Low Testosterone in Women and How to Increase T Naturally

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Adrenal, Balancing Your Hormones, Sex Hormones Leave a Comment

Does the word testosterone make you think about bulging muscles, mega competitiveness, and aggressiveness? If so, you’re not alone. Testosterone is often considered a “male” hormone, but in fact, it is critical for women’s health. Testosterone is an androgen involved in sexual desire, arousal, bone density, immunity, and muscle mass. This hormone also affects mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. …

Best Sleep Supplements

10 Best Sleep Supplements Besides Melatonin

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Herbs & Supplements, Sleep, Wellbeing Leave a Comment

Poor sleep affects all aspects of life and health. You’ve likely noticed how even one night of poor sleep affects your mood, energy, and hunger the following day. When poor sleep becomes chronic, the days can feel impossible to get through.  Sleep is critical for learning, memory, metabolic health, healthy aging, hormone balance, and overall health. When you’re snoozing, it …