Not all workouts are created equal, of course, and some exercise methods are harder on our hormones than others. Here’s exactly what you need to know if you want to keep your hormones in balance. Integrative medicine expert Dr. Taz Bhatia, M.D., adds that intense cardio workouts can be especially hard on women’s hormones. “The adrenaline output and physical demand on joints given the difference in female anatomy trigger more wear and tear, cortisol imbalances, and thyroid dysfunction,” she explains. Fern Olivia also recommends gentler forms of exercise to keep your hormones in check. “I’d go for light movement like yin yoga, kundalini yoga, tai chi, qigong, hiking, light yoga, and thyroid yoga,” she says. And if you need a quick fix, Dr. Teitelbaum suggests getting back to basics. “Increase your salt and water intake,” he says. “It’s great for adrenal support.” Want more ideas for balancing your hormones? Here are 10 ways to lower inflammation and balance hormones naturally.
