If you’ve been struggling with PMS symptoms, heavy periods, acne, breast tenderness or symptoms of PCOS or perimenopause then you’ve probably come across a DIM supplement as a solution. That’s because DIM supports healthy estrogen levels in the body. What Are DIM Supplements? DIM is short for diindolylmethane, a metabolite of indole-3-carbinol. DIM1 is a compound that can only be made …
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that can benefit greatly from diet and lifestyle therapies. In this article we’ll discuss the best diet for PCOS, which should be part of a comprehensive treatment approach to this complex condition. Often, once diagnosed with PCOS the initial treatment options include hormonal birth control, Metformin, and perhaps Spironolactone. While all of these …
If you’ve got ovaries that ovulate, it is highly likely that you develop an ovarian cyst at sometime in your fertile years. You may not even notice the ovarian cyst symptoms or it may be very painful depending on the type and size of the cyst. Each ovulatory cycle, an egg matures inside of a follicle. Then the follicle bursts …
L-theanine benefits include promotion of relaxation, stress reduction, restful sleep, and increased concentration. It is an amino acid that is found in both green and black tea. It is also found as a stand alone supplement and in combination formulas designed to promote sleep and relaxation. Many of my patients have benefited from adding L-theanine to their lifestyle routine to …
Did you know there are several phases of the menstrual cycle and a whole lot more going on than just your period? That’s right. There is a symphony of hormones playing throughout your cycle, which can explain why we feel different throughout the month. In medicine, there are three phases of the menstrual cycle: the follicular phase, the ovulatory phase, …
There are many reasons for a missing period, and you shouldn’t ignore any of them. Left untreated, the hormone imbalances associated with missing periods can wreak havoc on your cardiovascular, neurological, and bone health. In this article, I will explain common reasons that can cause your period to stop or never start in the first place, plus what you can …
By educating your daughter about how her menstrual cycle works, her period, and how her hormones change throughout the month, you can help make her adolescent years less confusing. In this article we’re going to review how to prepare your daughter for her first period so you’re both well equipped. For many parents, discussing periods with their children can be …
Puberty can be a confusing time for young women. Bodies are changing rapidly — breasts are starting to develop, body hair is beginning to grow, the shape of your body is changing, and the anticipation of the first period is looming. The onset of your first period can be scary if you are not prepared for it. In this article, …
Ever notice that your appetite seems to increase in the days leading up to your period? If so, you’re not alone. During our weekly Ask Dr. Brighten Q&A on social media I am often asked, “why am I so hungry on my period (or before),” especially for sugary snacks. It’s a common question among my patients too. So if you’ve …