Does Being Vegan Impact Hormone Health and Periods?

Does Being Vegan Impact Hormone Health and Periods?

Written by: Maddie Miles

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Time to read 2 min

To listen to my podcast episode on this topic, click here! I am joined by Shannon Leparski, IHP, author, and women’s hormone specialist.

For as long as I can remember, I have been criticized for my food choices and for the way my body looks. This judgment came mostly from myself, but from others too. I was judged for being vegan by many of my mentors and colleagues. I was also praised by many within the vegan community. There will always be external noise. But I knew deep inside that change was needed. 


The only constant in life is change. But this doesn’t make it any less scary. Especially when you are so open about your life to a worldwide community via social media. Regardless, I knew a few things to be certain:


  1. My health, although improved, needed extra support. 
  2. I was craving animal proteins.
  3. I didn’t want to be restrictive with my food or pass that onto my future children. 
  4. I always want to be authentic to my community and, above all, help you all feel your healthiest. 

My intuition was strong and I needed to listen to her. I don’t want to push my lifestyle on anyone, nor am I seeking external validation. But, I always want to be authentic with you all and support you in making decisions that will result in the greater good of your physical, mental, and spiritual health…as well as planetary health. 


I now enjoy going to the local farmers market and purchasing my eggs, chicken, and bones for bone broth from two regenerative farms that I love and trust. As for fish, we love purchasing wild caught SMASH (salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and herring) from sitka salmon shares. I still eat lots of fruits and vegetables. I will always love plants. But now, that way I eat feels complete. 


Before every meal, regardless of if it contains animal products or not, my partner and I give our gratitude for the food and all that transpired in order to get it on our plates and ultimately into our bellies to nourish us.


I just released a podcast episode with Shannon Leparski on our food healing journeys. I hope you listen to it. I can only say so much via text. I can do so much more with my voice.


Please, only love and positive vibes here💖


Ways in which quality animal proteins may benefit overall health:

  1. They can support regular and pain-free periods.
  2. Your body and mind will receive more essential nutrients such as zinc, iodine, iron, vitamin A, and taurine.
  3. Improved gut health and digestion.
  4. Improved blood glucose and insulin levels.
  5. More energy.
  6. Stronger hair and nails.
  7. Clearer skin.

Nutrients that are not present in plant foods:

  • Preformed vitamin A
  • Creatine
  • Vitamin B12
  • Carnosine
  • Taurine 
  • Heme iron
  • EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids
  • Vitamin D3
  • Vitamin K2 (MK-4 subtype)

Nutrients that are low in plant foods:

  • Zinc (incredibly important for gut health, skin, hormones, periods, and more)
  • Iodine(an essential micronutrient for thyroid function)
  • Methionine
  • Leucine
  • Choline
  • Glycine
  • Coenzyme Q10
  • Active vitamin B6 (pyridoxal-5-phosphate)
  • Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)

I am not one to judge any individual’s way of eating. But I do feel an internal desire and obligation to share the truth as we know it to help everyone feel their healthiest and happiest!

Much love,

Maddie Miles

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