Holy basil is an herb used for hormonal balance, blood sugar support, anxiety, cholesterol, and inflammation by many people. As I’ll explain in this article, research has shown holy basil benefits range from stress and mental/ emotional support to helping with fatigue and providing nutritional support. Holy Basil Benefits: Addressing hormone balance takes a holistic approach, but holy basil is …
Sleep Problems Before and During Your Period
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 …
10 Best Sleep Supplements Besides Melatonin
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 …
How Women Can Reduce Holiday Stress and Burnout
Time with family, holiday lights, special food, and fun drinks are some of the many things we love about the holidays. But let’s be honest: The holidays can be more than stressful. The pressure to make everything “perfect,” plus extra get-togethers, travel, and gift-giving, can all add up. For women, who tend to do it all, the holidays can be …
Is It Bad To Take Melatonin Every Night?
Most people know melatonin as a supplement to help you sleep with bonus antioxidant benefits. It has a reputation for being safe and effective. But is it bad to take melatonin every night? In this article, we’ll look at naturally occurring melatonin, the safety of melatonin supplements, and alternative non-drug sleep enhancing options. What Is Melatonin? Melatonin is a naturally …
Why Am I So Hungry On My Period?
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 …
How To Increase Serotonin Levels
Serotonin is a key hormone in promoting feelings of happiness and well-being. It plays a role in regulating your digestion, sleep, bones, inflammation, libido, and memory. If you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or insomnia, you may want to ask your doctor about a possible serotonin deficiency. You can support your body’s natural happiness hormone by understanding how serotonin …
8 Ways to Prevent Holiday Fatigue & Lower Stress
Do you feel like the holidays might get the best of you and your energy? If preventing holiday fatigue is on your mind, I want to let you know you’re not alone. Many of my patients share that the holidays are the most stressful time of year for them! Travel, family, late nights, eating out… It’s easy to see why …
Which Hormones Affect Sleep? The Hormone-Sleep Connection Explained
Melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland of the brain, is most commonly associated with sleep as it helps you both fall asleep and stay asleep. Cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands plays a pivotal role in your ability to wake in the morning. Together, cortisol and melatonin are most closely associated with your sleep-wake cycle, also …