Do you find PMS is lasting longer than it used to?
Are your moods more erratic or intense?
Are you feeling more flat, anxious or overwhelmed?
Changes in mood can be one of the major symptoms experienced by women who present with health concerns in clinic. While a hormonal imbalance may be underlying our moods, there can also be other factors involved.
Low Progesterone (especially in relation to estrogen) is a common finding in women who are experiencing increased moodiness or low mood. This imbalance can develop over time from multiple influences, especially ongoing stress and use of the pill.
Thyroid function is also impaired by stress and also plays a vital role in mood regulation. If you've only had your TSH tested (this is what's usually tested by GP's), it's ideal to also get T3 and T4 tested with a Naturopath to really assess how well you are producing and activating your thyroid hormones. The TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) can still look 'normal', even if the T3 and T4 are less than ideal.
Iron and B12 are also commonly low in clients. These nutrients are important for mood and energy, and there's an increased chance of having insufficient levels if you are vegetarian or have digestive issues which can impair absorption.
Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to low mood and energy. This is another important one you can get checked through your Naturopath, as Medicare no longer routinely covers this test for GP's, and many Australians are deficient. This would be one of my most important nutrients to get checked as it also plays a huge role in our immunity and disease protection. Optimal levels are over 100 pmol/L.
Bacteria balance and our gut function is also strongly linked to our mood and mental health - known as the Gut-Brain Axis. A large number of our neurotransmitters, which influence our mood, are produced in our digestive tract. If there is an imbalance in bacteria, an overgrowth of yeast, parasites or ongoing infection or inflammation - our gut environment and subsequent impact on our mood will be less than ideal!
Inflammation in our bodies and brain has been associated with depression and mood disorders. Our diet and lifestyles strongly influence the level of inflammation in our bodies. Stress, sugars, processed foods, trans fats, chemicals, excess refined grain products and alcohol can all contribute to inflammation.
Quality fats, protein, vegetables and filtered water to support our brain function, and neurotransmitter and hormone production. If the diet is lacking these nutrients our bodies and mind will be unable to operate optimally.
If moodiness is a symptom you'd like to address, I'd love to help you discover which of these underlying imbalances are relevant to you.
Marion McConnell is a degree qualified Naturopath who helps women with stress, hormone imbalances, anxiety and fatigue. The clinic is located in New Farm Brisbane, and consultations are also available via Skype. You can contact Marion here.