The post Natural Menopause Support Book and eBook – now available appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.

If you are in your forties or fifties and suddenly finding yourself wide awake at 3am, staring at the ceiling while your mind runs laps, you are not imagining it. Sleep problems are one of the earliest and most common signs of perimenopause, often showing up years before your periods change.

In my clinic, poor sleep is usually the symptom women want fixed first. And fair enough. Everything feels harder when you are running on five broken hours, and it makes so many other systems struggle, given that sleep is important for your metabolism, immune health, digestion, hormone balance, detoxification and more.

So let’s look at what is actually going on, because once you understand the why, the solutions make a lot more sense.

Progesterone: your natural sleep hormone

Progesterone is often the first hormone to decline in perimenopause, and it happens to be deeply calming. In the body, progesterone converts to a compound called allopregnanolone, which acts on the same GABA receptors that sleep medications target. GABA is your nervous system’s brake pedal.

When progesterone starts to fall, you lose some of that natural braking. The result? You feel wired at bedtime, you sleep more lightly, and you wake more easily through the night.

This is why sleep can fall apart even while your cycles still look fairly regular.

Not only does progesterone affect GABA levels, it also affects your breathing rate which can increase the likelihood for sleep apnoea.

The 3am cortisol and blood sugar story

That classic 3am wake-up is rarely random. Two things are usually at play.

First, cortisol. Your stress hormone naturally starts rising in the early hours to prepare you for waking. If your baseline stress is high, that rise comes earlier and steeper, and it tips you into full wakefulness.

Second, blood sugar. If your evening meal was light on protein or you had a couple of wines with dinner, your blood sugar can dip overnight. Your body treats a blood sugar dip as an stressful event and releases cortisol and adrenaline to correct it. If this happens, then you will likely wake with a racing mind, sometimes a pounding heart, and no idea why.

Falling oestrogen makes this worse, because oestrogen helps your cells respond to insulin and stress. As it declines, blood sugar becomes less stable. It is no wonder sleep gets rocky.

Tips to help sleep in perimenopause

The good news is that those issues respond well to some fairly simple changes. Here is where I start with my patients.

Balance your macronutrients at dinner. Aim for a palm-sized serve of protein with your evening meal, and consider a small protein-based snack before bed if you are waking at 3am (a boiled egg or a spoonful of nut butter works well). Protein by itself can feel a bit wobbly in the blood sugar levels, so keep it balanced with some fibre and complex carbohydrates. Stable blood sugar overnight means less cortisol firing.

Watch the wine. Alcohol helps you fall asleep and then wakes you up four hours later as it wears off and blood sugar dips. If you are struggling with 3am waking, this is the first experiment to run: two weeks without it, and see what changes.

Get morning light. Ten minutes of outdoor light within an hour of waking anchors your circadian rhythm and helps melatonin rise properly that night. It costs nothing and it works.

Move your caffeine earlier. Caffeine has a half-life of around six hours. Your 2pm coffee is still a quarter-strength coffee at 2am.

Consider magnesium and l-theanine. Magnesium supports GABA activity and muscle relaxation, and most of us do not eat enough of it. Magnesium glycinate or citrate in the evening is a gentle place to start. L-theanine can help to relax the mind and reduce racing thoughts.

Herbal support for perimenopausal sleep

This is where herbal medicine shines, because we can choose herbs that match your particular picture.

Ziziphus (Ziziphus jujuba) is one of my favourites for the woman who is exhausted but wired, waking through the night with sweating and a restless mind. It has a long history of use in Chinese medicine for exactly this pattern.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) suits the racing mind that will not switch off at bedtime, the mental chatter that circles and circles.

Withania/Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera) works more on the underlying stress picture, supporting the nervous system and cortisol patterns over weeks rather than knocking you out on the night.

The right herb depends on your constitution and your particular sleep pattern, which is why a one-size-fits-all sleep supplement so often disappoints. Matching the herb to the person is the whole art.

When sleep problems need more

If you have tried the foundations and sleep is still broken, it is worth a proper look at the bigger hormonal picture. For some women that means deeper herbal and nutritional support. For others, body-identical progesterone may be worth considering. This does not have to be an either-or decision, and the best outcomes I see usually combine both worlds.

Photo by Greta Bartolini on Unsplash

I cover sleep in much more depth, including the full herbal materia medica and how to match herbs to your constitutional picture, in my upcoming book Natural Menopause Support: Practical Tools & Natural Strategies for Perimenopause & Menopause.
Join the mailing list below to be the first to know when it launches, and to grab it at a special launch-week price.

The post Why Can’t I Sleep? Perimenopause, Progesterone and the 3am Wake-Up appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.

The post HPV & Cervical Health: What You Need to Know appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.

Hair Loss & Hair Thinning: A Naturopathic Approach to Finding the Root Cause

Hair loss can be stressful and deeply upsetting. For many people, changes in their hair affect confidence, identity and self-esteem. In clinic, I often see women in their 30s, 40s and 50s who feel frustrated because their hair suddenly feels thinner, flatter, or is shedding more than usual.

Discovering a solution for hair loss or hair thinning is not always straightforward. Hair is influenced by hormones, nutrient status, stress, gut health, thyroid function, immune balance and more. This is why a quick-fix shampoo or supplement rarely addresses the real cause, and may delay you getting the answers and support you need. Sure, give the hair and nails multi a go if you want to, but if you’re not seeing hints of improvement after a month then you need to knuckle down and start looking at getting some answers.

The good news? With the right assessment and a root-cause approach, improvement is absolutely possible.

First: What Type of Hair Loss Are You Experiencing?

Understanding the pattern of hair loss gives us important clues.

General Thinning

Diffuse thinning across the scalp often suggests:

• Iron deficiency
• Thyroid imbalance
• Hormonal shifts (perimenopause, postpartum)
• Chronic stress
• Telogen effluvium

Patches of Hair Loss

Well-defined bald patches may indicate Alopecia areata. This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system targets hair follicles.

Strand Breaking

If hair is snapping rather than shedding from the root, we look at:

• Protein intake
• Nutrient deficiencies (zinc, biotin, silica)
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Chemical or heat damage

Receding Hairline or Thinning at the Crown

Often associated with:

• Androgenic alopecia
  This pattern can affect both men and women and is driven by androgen sensitivity.
• This can be impacted by increased tension on hair such as overly tight hairstyles.

Widening Part Line

Common in women 30-50, especially during:

• Perimenopause
• After stopping the pill
• Postpartum
• Periods of chronic stress

Identifying the pattern helps determine what systems we need to investigate.

The Key Nutrients for Healthy Hair Growth

Hair follicles are metabolically active, and so they need adequate nutrients to grow strong, thick strands.

Important nutrients include:

• Iron (Ferritin) – Low ferritin is one of the most common contributors to hair thinning in women.
• Zinc – Essential for hair follicle repair and immune regulation.
• Protein – Hair is made from keratin, a protein structure.
• Biotin & B Vitamins – Support energy production and follicle function.
• Vitamin D – Plays a role in immune balance and follicle cycling.
• Iodine & Selenium – Support thyroid function, involved in hormone balance and glutathione production.
• Essential Fatty Acids – Help maintain scalp health.

It’s important to test rather than guess, supplementing blindly is not ideal.

Hormones and Hair Loss

Hormones are one of the biggest drivers of hair changes, particularly for women aged 30-50.

For Women

Hormonal hair loss may be linked to:

• Oestrogen fluctuations (perimenopause)
• Low progesterone
• Elevated androgens (testosterone, DHT)
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Coming off hormonal contraception
• Postpartum hormone shifts

Artificial hormones that are androgenic (certain contraceptives or medications) can reduce the size of hair follicles over time.

Women may experience thinning along the part line or crown, a classic presentation of Androgenic alopecia.

For Men

Men commonly experience:

• Receding hairline
• Crown thinning
• Genetic androgen sensitivity

While genetics play a role, gut health, inflammation and nutrient status can significantly influence progression. Supporting testosterone metabolism by reducing the dominance of DHT can also be helped with some herbal medicines such as Saw Palmetto, and nutrients.

Stress, HPA Axis Dysfunction & Hair Loss

Chronic stress has a profound impact on hair growth.

When we are under prolonged stress, the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) becomes dysregulated, often referred to as “adrenal fatigue.” This impacts cortisol rhythms, thyroid function, and sex hormone balance.

One common result is Telogen effluvium.

This occurs when stress pushes hair follicles into the resting (telogen) phase prematurely. Hair shedding may begin 2–6 months after a stressful event such as illness, trauma, burnout, or major life change.

If you suspect stress is a factor, I explore this deeply in my Beat Burnout eCourse, where we address nervous system regulation and HPA axis recovery.

Autoimmune Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss can sometimes be immune-driven.

Alopecia areata

Characterised by round bald patches, this condition reflects immune system dysregulation.

When I see this in clinic, we investigate factors such as:

• Gut permeability or dysbiosis
• Inflammatory triggers
• Food sensitivities
• Stress load
• Thyroid antibodies

Supporting immune tolerance and reducing inflammation can help stabilise progression.

Photo by Tamara Bellis on Unsplash

We Need to Identify the Cause

Hair loss is not a diagnosis, it is a symptom.

Before treatment, we ask:

• Is this hormonal?
• Is there a nutritional deficiency such as low iron?
• Is thyroid function suboptimal?
• Is there autoimmune activity?
• Is stress disrupting the hair cycle?
• Is gut absorption compromised?

This is why personalised assessment is so important. In some cases you may need to be referred to a specialist who can investigate further with a biopsy, however it can be helpful to also start taking a holistic approach with these tests. (Not all of these tests need to be done at once).

What Tests Might Be Helpful?

1. Blood Tests (Starting Point)

I often recommend:

• Iron studies
• Full thyroid panel and thyroid antibodies
• Vitamin D
• B12
• Zinc
• Hormone panel (depending on age and symptoms)
• Autoimmune markers

2. DUTCH Test or ENDOmap

A comprehensive dried urine hormone test can assess:

• Cortisol rhythm
• Oestrogen metabolism
• Progesterone
• Androgen level and metabolism

This is particularly helpful for women in perimenopause or with complex hormonal patterns.

3. HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis)

This test can provide insight into:

• Mineral imbalances
• Stress patterns
• Mineral metabolic rate

4. If You’re Not Improving, Look Deeper

The gut influences almost every aspect of health – including hair.

Looking at gut health involves assessing symptoms, history and potentially doing a thorough gut health workout such as with a stool analysis that measures the microbiome, as well as markers of inflammation, intestinal permeability and more.

Poor gut health can impact things like:

• Absorption of nutrients
• Chronic inflammation
• Hormone detoxification (e.g. may contribute to excess DHT, or poor oestrogen clearance)
• Gut-brain interaction

Poor nutrient absorption alone can stall hair regrowth, even if your diet appears adequate.

Types of Hair Loss Explained

For clarity:

• Androgenic alopecia – Gradual thinning due to androgen sensitivity.
• Alopecia areata – Autoimmune-related patchy loss.
• Anagen effluvium – Rapid loss during active growth phase (often due to chemotherapy or radiation).
• Telogen effluvium – Sudden shedding after stress or shock.

Each type requires a different approach.

From a Traditional & Herbal Perspective

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, hair is closely linked to Kidney and Spleen energy. Deficiency patterns may reflect chronic stress depletion.

In Western naturopathic terms, we would often interpret this as HPA axis dysfunction (commonly called adrenal fatigue), where prolonged stress has altered hormone signalling and metabolic resilience.

Supporting nervous system recovery is often a foundational step in treatment.

Apart from addressing the factors I’ve previously mentioned, I will often include the use of herbs that support circulation and hormonal health.

How Long Does It Take to See Improvement?

Hair growth is slow, so patience is essential.

General timelines:

• Reduced shedding: 6-8 weeks
• Baby hairs visible: 3-4 months
• Noticeable thickening: 6-9 months
• Full cycle improvement: ~12 months

Hair follicles cycle slowly. Sustainable improvement comes from addressing the underlying cause, not masking symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common cause of hair loss in women 30-50?

Hormonal shifts (perimenopause), low iron, thyroid dysfunction, and chronic stress are the most common contributors.

Can stress really cause hair loss?

Yes. Chronic stress can trigger Telogen effluvium by pushing hair into the resting phase prematurely.

Should I take a hair supplement?

If your hair loss is severe I don’t recommend starting without testing. Hair supplements can help, but only if they address your specific deficiency. Many people may notice an improvement from taking the generic hair loss supplements but it can be worthwhile to investigate first.

Can hair grow back after thinning?

In many cases, yes – particularly if follicles are still active. Early intervention improves outcomes.

When to Seek Support

If you’ve noticed:

• Ongoing shedding for more than 3 months
• A widening part line
• Patchy bald areas
• Hair thinning after illness or stress
• Hair changes during perimenopause

It’s time to investigate properly.

We take a root-cause, evidence-informed approach to hair loss and thinning. We combine functional testing, hormone assessment, nutrient optimisation and nervous system support to create personalised treatment plans.

Book a consultation in person or via telehealth if you’d like guidance tailored to your unique presentation. The sooner we investigate, the sooner we can support regrowth.

The post Getting to the root of Hair Loss appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.

Not long after you blew the candles out for your 40^th birthday cake, you likely started to notice some subtle shifts in how you were feeling. Maybe you started feeling a bit more irritable, anxious, or sluggish. Perhaps your menstrual cycle started to alter. Or maybe your libido took a hit. While menopause occurs around 50 years of age for most women, it’s possible to start experiencing the hormonal shifts of perimenopause –  the period of time that leads up to the time your menstrual cycle stops for good – in their early 40s.

Here are some of the most common questions that people have around perimenopause, and what can be done to help support their hormones naturally.

What are the symptoms of perimenopause?

Perimenopause is a time of hormonal fluctuations, and with this many symptoms can occur. Some of the most common symptoms that women experience sleep disturbances, mood swings, reduced stress tolerance, lowered libido, hot flushes, menstrual irregularity, changes in menstrual flow (may be lighter or heavier than usual, sometimes with significant increases), bloating, brain fog, joint or muscle aches, hayfever, itchy ears, fatigue, vaginal dryness, increased tendency to thrush or BV, and headaches/migraines.

Why do women get perimenopausal symptoms?

Unlike after menopause, when hormones are at a lower state and symptoms can occur because of these low levels, in perimenopause symptoms can be caused by the fluctuations of oestrogen and the gradual decline of progesterone. These hormonal shifts can cause the adrenal response to stress to be affected, which also means that stress can be harder to deal with.

Why do hormones change in your 40s?

Hormonal balance is largely a result of regular, healthy ovulation. The follicular phase, the time between the start of menstruation and ovulation is a time of abundant oestrogen, and then in the luteal phase, oestrogen declines (with a few spikes) while progesterone levels come to the show. It is all dependant on ovulation.

For this to all work in harmony, many factors need to be working seamlessly, such as stress hormones, inflammation, mitochondrial health and nutritional health. The previous cycle will affect subsequent cycles, as low progesterone often triggers higher levels of FSH.

As oocyte (egg) numbers decline and mitochondrial health depletes, the signals of the HPO axis in perimenopause are altered and ovulation doesn’t occur every cycle. This results in a gradual decline in progesterone, and fluctuating levels of oestrogen as the brain tries to adjust to the fluctuation of irregular ovulation.

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

What is the difference between menopause and perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the time leading up to the definitive marker of menopause, the time when there has been 12 months since the last menstrual bleed. You are perimenopause in the time leading up to this moment, and post menopausal afterwards. Menopause is the umbrella term that incorporates all of these. It is worth noting that it is still possible to experience a random bleed in the post menopausal period, and if this occurs you should discuss with your health care practitioner as while it can be a renegade menstruation, it can also be a sign of something more concerning.

Should I take supplements to support my hormones?

Not everyone needs to take supplements, and many nutrients can be obtained through your diet. But there are a lot of people who aren’t eating enough of the vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy hormones and nervous system health, or have genetic polymorphisms which increase their demand for certain nutrients.

These are some of my favourite supplements to support the perimenopausal period:

• Magnesium glycinate – this is important for nervous system health, blood sugar level regularity and is important for hormone creation and detoxification.
• Taurine – I often prescribe this alongside magnesium, as it can help with improving mood and energy (it interacts with GABA receptors, producing a calming effect). It is also important for bile acid formation and mitochondrial health.
• Ubiquinol – The activated form of Coq10 is more effectively used in those who are over 30 years of age. CoQ10 and its activated form ubiquinol are important for mitochondria health, which has many wide-reaching benefits including cardiovascular health, energy, immune function, skin health and other anti-aging properties and more.
• Collagen – As oestrogen lowers, the body’s ability to make and repair collagen reduces, so supplementation can help to offset some of this loss. Collagen can be helpful for improving skin, bone and joint health, and often is useful for digestive health concerns.
• Phyto-oestrogens – In particular, soy which is abundant in isoflavones have a regulating effect on hormones. Isoflavones have been studied abundantly and found to be helpful for managing menopausal symptoms, as well as being protective against several of the long-term risks of menopause such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. It is protective against many forms of hormone-dependant cancers. I advise avoiding the overly refined forms of soy products, and opting for those made with the whole bean such as traditional soy foods, or milks made from the whole bean rather than the isolate.

There are many more nutritional supplements that can be beneficial, as well as herbal medicines that can support you through this period. I discuss these in more detail in my ecourse Natural Menopause Support. Alternatively, get in touch with your health care practitioner to help work out what your individual requirements are, as well as what doses you may need.

How do I know if I’m going through perimenopause?

This is a very common question, and unfortunately it doesn’t have a simple answer. Hormone testing can provide some insight into whether you are getting closer to perimenopause, but it can be difficult to interpret because of the fluctuations that occur in perimenopause.

The best way to know if you are going through perimenopause is taking several factors into consideration such as your age, your maternal family’s menopausal experience, your symptoms – notably your cycle regularity and whether this has changed.

Blood tests may show a gradual increase in FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and a decline in progesterone. Oestrogen levels can fluctuate in perimenopause, so they may be high or low. After menopause when you have not ovulated for at least 12 months, oestrogen and progesterone will be considerably lower, and FSH will usually be much higher.

How to lose weight in your 40s

It may seem like losing weight as you get older becomes more of a struggle, and that’s because your hormonal shifts cause your metabolic health to change. Insulin resistance is a by product of reduced oestrogen, which makes losing weight, especially around the abdomen more difficult than it was when you were younger. If there are other hormonal imbalances at play such as PCOS, oestrogen excess, thyroid dysfunction or chronic stress/HPA dysfunction this can also contribute towards difficulty losing weight with standard methods.

Assessing your hormonal situation is the first step to identify barriers to weight loss, and then you can make diet and exercises choices that will work best for you.

In the majority of cases the staples of weight loss still need to come into play, such as ensuring you are eating the correct amount of calories, exercising and maintaining muscle mass, and getting adequate sleep.

GLP-1 and GIP medications are becoming more popular, and while they can be very helpful in the weight loss journey they do have side effects and risks that need to be managed. As with any other weight loss approach, they are not a long term solution but can be helpful whilst other factors such as diet and lifestyle habits are improved, and hormonal imbalance is supported.

When should I consider HRT?

This is an individual decision and needs to be done in collaboration with your health care practitioner. Menopausal Hormonal Therapy (MHT), previously known as Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT) has had many advances in safety and can be used to help navigate the symptoms with low oestrogen, progesterone and/or DHEA. In perimenopause, progesterone therapy is more commonly used cyclically, with oestrogen being more beneficial only in the times when low oestrogen occurs. As oestrogen fluctuates in perimenopause, it is often not used until after ovulation has ceased.

Some people experience negative effects from taking MHT, but this doesn’t mean that MHT is not for you, but rather that you need to have your individual needs taken into consideration. If you feel worse from MHT, this may be due to poor detoxification of oestrogens or because your hormones are still fluctuating too wildly, as taking additional oestrogen when it is already high can cause issues such as heavy bleeding, headaches or mood changes.

You may be able to find out if you are not detoxing your hormones properly with a test that assesses the ratio of your hormone metabolites, such as the DUTCH test or EndoMap.

Should I see a naturopath for perimenopause?

Perimenopause and menopause are one of the most common reasons that people seek help from a naturopath, and for good reason. There is so much that can be done to support people going through this transition naturally, including supporting symptoms and hormonal fluctuations with herbal medicine, nutritional supplements to reduce symptoms and improve wellbeing, and education and guidance around diet and lifestyle adjustments that can help to both reduce the symptoms of this time and reduce the risks associated with after menopause such as osteoporosis, genito-urinary changes and cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Because this is such a common thing that people seek help with, I have created an ecourse – Natural Menopause Support – which provides an abundance of education about what is going on in menopause and perimenopause, as well as guidance on navigating the remedies that may be helpful.

As you move through your 40s, understanding and supporting your hormones can make a world of difference to how you feel each day. Perimenopause doesn’t have to be a confusing or uncomfortable time — with the right nutrition, lifestyle support, and individualised care, you can navigate this stage feeling strong, informed, and in tune with your body.

If you’d like to dive deeper into natural ways to manage symptoms and restore hormonal balance, you’ll find plenty of guidance in my Natural Menopause Support eCourse, where I share practical tools and naturopathic insights to help you thrive through perimenopause and beyond.

The post How to Support Your Hormones Naturally in Your 40s appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.

Imagine this scenario – you’ve been getting symptoms such as vulval itching and redness so you treat it with an over-the-counter thrush cream. The symptoms go. Must have been thrush, right?

It happens again later, but this time the treatment doesn’t work. So you try something else – maybe a pessary or an oral antifungal. Still getting symptoms…

Eventually, you get a swab from your GP, but the results don’t show anything definitive.

So you do a bit of research and decide to go on a strict anti-Candida diet and take several strong natural products that wipe everything out.

But now your gut’s feeling off, you’re anxious about everything you’re eating, and somehow you’re no closer to answers.

You go back to your doctor, and this time you’re given an antidepressant.

How did you end up here!?

Now take this story, and swap out thrush for recurrent UTIs, or BV, or interstitial cystitis. It’s a common journey for so many people, and it can be incredibly frustrating when symptoms keep recurring and you’re left without clear answers. Sometimes things do get picked up early and treatment is straightforward – but often I hear variations of this story, where people don’t fully know what’s causing their symptoms, or they’re led to believe it’s just something they have to live with. Others are placed on long-term medications they don’t feel comfortable with or are never told there may be an underlying imbalance.

A different approach –

When looking into vaginal microbiome health it’s important to have a good idea what you’re working with.
Most people are familiar with the classic symptoms of Candida/thrush – itching, redness, discharge. But sometimes it can present in less typical ways – for example, with only skin irritation or splitting, and no discharge at all. And importantly, Candida is just one type of imbalance. There are many microbes that can disrupt vaginal health – including bacteria linked to BV or chronic UTIs, and others that can trigger inflammation or discomfort without a clear “infection.”

So how do you find out what the cause is?

First and foremost we look at signs and symptoms. The colour, texture, sensations and odour of vaginal discharge can be very informative. Then we can narrow down whether the environment is too acid or alkaline, something that has a big impact on determining what sort of microbes can grow.

After examining symptoms, we can look at vaginal pH – an easy thing you can do at home to monitor the fluctuates from day to day. Vaginal pH is a good indicator of whether the condition is bacterial or fungal, and can show changes before symptoms appear.

A typical swab performed by the GP can also provide a lot of insight. Things like the presence of clue cells, leucocytes, what can be cultured, and whether bacteria appears to be there regardless of whether we know what type it is or not. However, Candida and other microbes don’t always show up on the day of testing, especially in cases of RVVC (recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis), which can wax and wane.

This can often be enough. But if we need to dig deeper a more in depth vaginal microbiome test can be helpful.

There are several versions of vaginal microbiome testing available, currently my preference is through Nutripath which I discuss in the below video.

What is a microbiome?

A community of microorganisms that exist within an area of our body contributing to that spaces function and wellbeing. In female reproductive health we commonly refer to the vaginal microbiome – that microbiome that exists within the vagina and also affects the vulval tissues, as well as the endometrial microbiome (impacting the uterus and surrounding fluids) which may be different depending on cervical competency, and the peritoneal fluid microbiome. In the case of RVVC and chronic BV the vaginal microbiome is the most relevant.

Unlike the gut microbiome, the vaginal microbiome is meant to be relatively low in diversity. In most people, it’s dominated by Lactobacillus species, which help keep the environment slightly acidic and defend against invaders. There are variations in the vaginal microbiome based on hormonal stage (e.g. puberty, pregnancy, menopause) and even across the menstrual cycle. The type of lactobacillus that is dominant may vary based on your genetics, referred to community subtype (CST).

Signs of vaginal microbiome imbalance

• Itching in the vulval or vaginal tissues
• Redness or irritation
• Discomfort or soreness of the vulva or vagina that’s not related to
• Discharge that does not fit the typical ovulation discharge pattern
• Discharge that has a fishy, yeast, acidic, or “rotten/off” smell
• Recurrent UTIs
• Splitting in the creases
• Gushing or watery discharge (a clue depending on the microbe involved)
• Symptoms that flare or change during different phases of your menstrual cycle

Underlying Drivers of Vaginal Microbiome Imbalance

There’s no single cause for microbial imbalance. Often, several systems in the body interact and contribute. Here’s a breakdown:

• Gut health: Our gut is integral in almost all facets of our health and wellbeing. The impact of gut health on vaginal health may be different to what you may think. While older theories linked gut Candida to vaginal thrush, newer research shows this is unlikely due to the gut’s low-oxygen environment. RVVC is not typically caused by reinfection from the gut. Our gut health has an impact because of it’s influence on things like our immune system, hormonal balance, nutritional status and inflammation levels such as histamine tolerance. While gut candida is uncommon, and if present does not typically cause RVVC it is still important that we support gut microbiome in chronic dysbiotic cases.

• Oral health: Poor gum and oral health can drive systemic inflammation, which in turn can affect microbial balance elsewhere in the body.

• Immune health: An immune system that’s either overactive or suppressed can make it harder for the vaginal microbiome to stay balanced. Histamine excess can perpetuate chronic vaginal/vulval symptoms and can cause a heightened reaction when candida is present. There is a relationship between hormonal imbalance and mast cell activation issues that can feed RVVC.

• Hormonal balance: Both high and low oestrogen can create imbalances. In cycling women, this may lead to fluctuating symptoms throughout the month. In menopause, reduced oestrogen means less glycogen in vaginal tissues – a critical food source for Lactobacilli – leading to lower populations of these protective microbes. PCOS can be associated with a unique discharge pattern, and hormonal contraceptives like the OCP can alter both microbiome composition and typical discharge characteristics. Supporting hormonal balance is often a key goal in treating vaginal dysbiosis.

• Stress and nervous system regulation: Chronic stress can shift immune function, disrupt hormonal signalling, and create conditions in which opportunistic microbes thrive.

• Medication use: Antibiotics, antihistamines, and even some hormonal treatments can alter microbial environments by reducing protective species.

• Diet and lifestyle: High sugar and low-fibre diets, synthetic underwear, scented products, improper use of soaps or douching and certain sexual practices can disrupt pH or microbial stability.

The Complexity of Candida and RVVC

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is notoriously difficult to manage. One major challenge is timing – it may not show up on a swab done at your GP’s office if you’re between flares. But days later, symptoms can spike again.

And while low Lactobacilli is often linked to chronic Candida, this isn’t always the case. Some women have recurring Candida issues despite normal pH and healthy levels of Lactobacilli. In these cases, the key lies in addressing deeper factors – not just treating the yeast, but looking at immune regulation, inflammation, and systemic triggers.

The Broader Impact on Fertility and Reproductive Health

A disrupted vaginal microbiome can affect far more than just comfort. Studies link dysbiosis with higher miscarriage rates, IVF failure, and unexplained infertility. It may also fuel systemic inflammation via LPS production, worsening conditions like endometriosis and adenomyosis.

Both male and female reproductive microbiomes play a role in conception. The quality of the vaginal environment can influence sperm survival and how the sperm and egg interact.

What Can Be Done About It?

Effective treatment requires more than just “killing off” whatever shows up in a test. This is where working with a practitioner can make all the difference.

I’ve completed extensive training in vaginal microbiome care and offer tailored support – including custom pessaries and individualised treatment plans that target your unique underlying drivers.

A treatment strategy will typically involve:

• Supporting and regulating hormone balance

• Calming inflammation

• Addressing metabolic health and blood sugar regulation

• Modifying lifestyle and sexual practices as needed

• Supporting local vaginal tissue repair and resilience

• Enhancing immune function

• Restoring nervous system regulation and reducing chronic stress load

• Optimising diet, nutrient intake, and specific nutritional markers

• Identifying and targeting key pathogens where necessary

• Using timing strategies to prevent symptoms before they begin

• Balancing vaginal pH

• Supplying prebiotic fuels to feed beneficial microbes

• Using specific probiotics

References

Bradfield Strydom, M., Nelson, T.M., Khan, S. et al. The impact of fluconazole use on the fungal and bacterial microbiomes in recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (RVVC): a pilot study of vaginal and gastrointestinal site interplay. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 44, 285–301 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10096-024-04999-1

Ono, Y., Kobayashi, Y., Shimada, S., Fukushi, Y., Yoshino, O., Wada, S., & Yamada, H. (2024). Uterine Endometrium Microbiome in Women with Repeated Implantation Failure Complicated by Endometriosis. Journal of clinical medicine, 13(16), 4605. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13164605

The post What to do when Thrush and BV don’t go away appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.

The post Endometriosis and IBS: Why These Two Conditions Often Go Hand in Hand appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.

Understanding and treating missing periods naturally.

Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea (HA) is a condition you may have been hearing about more frequently lately. Despite being a bit of a mouthful to pronounce, this condition is unfortunately more common than many women realise. In simple terms, HA occurs when your brain stops communicating properly with your reproductive system, causing your periods to go completely AWOL! Let’s explore this condition in depth to help you understand what’s happening in your body.

Understanding Primary vs Secondary Amenorrhoea

Before diving deeper, it’s important to understand the difference between primary and secondary amenorrhoea:

Primary amenorrhoea refers to when a young woman hasn’t started menstruating by age 16, despite having undergone other normal pubertal development.

Secondary amenorrhoea, which includes Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea, occurs when menstrual periods that were previously normal and regular stop for three or more consecutive months in a woman who was previously menstruating.

Photo by Rodolfo Sanches Carvalho on Unsplash

What is Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea?

Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea exclusively affects women, as it’s directly related to the female reproductive system. This condition is characterised by the absence of menstrual cycles for three months or longer, and in some serious cases, periods can disappear for years.

HA stems from disruptions in your hypothalamus function – a small but mighty structure located in your brain. The hypothalamus serves as the control centre for numerous vital bodily functions, including:

• Regulating body temperature
• Managing hunger and thirst signals
• Controlling blood pressure
• Governing your sleep-wake cycle
• Influencing sex drive
• Orchestrating hormone production and activity

When the hypothalamus senses that your body is under stress, it responds by reducing the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which subsequently affects the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) – both crucial for ovulation and menstruation.

What Causes Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea?

Several factors can trigger this protective response from your body:

• Nutritional deficiencies or inadequate caloric intake: Your body needs sufficient energy to maintain reproductive function
• Excessive exercise or overtraining: This can occur across many activities and sports, not limited to any particular field. Even regular fitness enthusiasts can experience HA if their exercise regimen is too intense relative to their individual needs and caloric intake
• Chronic or elevated stress levels: Both psychological and physical stress can disrupt hormonal balance
• Low body weight or rapid weight loss: Even if you’re not clinically underweight
• History of oral contraceptive use: Some women experience delayed return of menstruation after stopping the pill
• A combination of these factors: Often multiple stressors compound the effect

It’s important to note that susceptibility to HA varies significantly between individuals. Some women can maintain intensive exercise routines or experience temporary stress without losing their periods, while others are more sensitive to these factors. This is why comparing your diet and exercise regime to others isn’t a good idea – your body has its own unique thresholds and requirements.

Many women experiencing HA don’t fit any stereotype. Even moderate caloric restriction combined with regular exercise and everyday stress can be enough to trigger this condition in susceptible individuals.

Why Does My Body Stop Menstruating?

From an evolutionary perspective, your body has sophisticated mechanisms to protect you during times of perceived threat. When your brain detects signals of potential famine (insufficient calories), physical danger (excessive exercise), or emotional threat (chronic stress), it essentially puts reproduction on the backburner to conserve energy for survival.

Think of it as your body’s wisdom – if resources are scarce or conditions aren’t optimal, it’s not an ideal time to support a pregnancy. Your body prioritises vital functions over reproductive capabilities until conditions improve.

The intricate hormone cascade that regulates your menstrual cycle requires everything to be working in harmony. When disrupted, the delicate balance of oestrogen, progesterone, LH, and FSH becomes compromised, resulting in anovulation (lack of ovulation) and subsequently, no menstruation.

It’s important to note that while HA is a common cause of secondary amenorrhoea (periods stopping after they’ve been established), other conditions such as PCOS, thyroid disorders, and premature ovarian insufficiency can present similarly. This is why proper diagnosis through a healthcare provider is essential.

Signs and Symptoms of Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea

Beyond the obvious absence of menstruation, you might experience:

• Low energy levels and fatigue
• Mood changes, including anxiety or depression
• Disrupted sleep patterns
• Reduced sex drive
• Dry skin and brittle hair
• Cold intolerance (feeling cold frequently)
• Bone density concerns (if prolonged)
• Difficulty concentrating
• Digestive changes

Comprehensive Approach to Managing Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea

Restoring your menstrual cycle requires a holistic approach targeting the root causes. As a naturopath, I find that a balanced strategy incorporating lifestyle modifications, nutrition, targeted herbs, and supplements offers the most effective path to recovery.

Nourishing Nutrition for Hormone Health

• Increase caloric intake: Most women with HA need at least 2,000-2,500 calories daily, sometimes more depending on activity level and body composition
• Prioritise carbohydrates: Adequate carbohydrate intake is absolutely crucial for hypothalamic function and hormone production. Your brain relies heavily on glucose, and including plenty of complex carbohydrates is essential. Include foods like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, whole grains (freekeh, quinoa, buckwheat, rice), sourdough bread, legumes, and starchy vegetables to provide essential energy for hormone production
• Include quality protein: Aim for 1.2-1.8g per kg of body weight from varied sources like eggs, fish, legumes, and quality animal products
• Prioritise healthy fats: Your reproductive hormones are made from cholesterol and require adequate fat intake. Include avocados, olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish in your diet
• Don’t fear dietary fat: 30-40% of your calories should come from healthy fats to support hormone synthesis
• Support gut health: Consume fermented foods (yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and prebiotic fibres to maintain the gut-hormone connection (Note: fermented foods may not be suitable for those with histamine intolerance)
• Important: Under no circumstances should you attempt a low or no-carb diet when dealing with HA – your body needs carbohydrates to signal reproductive safety

Supportive Lifestyle Practices

• Effective stress management: Practice daily meditation, journalling, or gentle breathwork
• Prioritise sleep quality: Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep in a cool, dark room
• Connect with nature: Forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) has been shown to reduce cortisol levels
• Sunlight exposure: 15-30 minutes of morning sunlight helps regulate circadian rhythms and vitamin D production, both crucial for hormone health
• Mindful breathing: Practice 4-7-8 breathing (inhale for 4, hold for 7, exhale for 8) several times daily to activate your parasympathetic nervous system
• Create boundaries: Learn to say no to excessive commitments that contribute to your stress load

Appropriate Exercise Modifications

During recovery from HA, it’s crucial to scale back high-intensity exercise until regular menstruation returns. Consider these gentler alternatives:

• Restorative yoga: Focus on yin or gentle hatha practices that activate the relaxation response
• Pilates: Build core strength without excessive cardio stress
• Mindful walking: Particularly in natural settings at a conversational pace
• Gentle swimming: Non-weight bearing and relaxing for the nervous system
• Mobility work: Maintain flexibility without taxing your adrenal system

Once your cycles have returned consistently for 3-6 months, you can gradually reintroduce more intensive exercise while carefully monitoring your menstrual health.

Herbs & Supplements for Hormonal Support

Herbal Allies:

• Adaptogenic herbs: Help balance the body’s stress response and support adrenal function
  • Withania (Ashwagandha): Helps reduce cortisol and supports thyroid function
  • Rhodiola rosea: Enhances stress resilience and energy without stimulation
  • Holy Basil (Tulsi): Balances stress hormones and supports metabolic health
• Nervous system supporters:
  • Chamomile: Gentle calming effect without sedation
  • Passionflower: Reduces anxiety and promotes restful sleep
  • Lemon balm: Uplifts mood while calming the nervous system

Targeted Supplements:

• Acetyl-L-carnitine: Supports LH production and egg quality
• Magnesium glycinate: Essential for over 300 enzymatic reactions, including hormonal pathways (300-450mg daily)
• Zinc: Critical for reproductive hormone function and thyroid health (15-30mg daily)
• Vitamin D3: Many women with HA have insufficient levels (2000-5000 IU daily, based on blood levels)
• B-complex vitamins: Support energy production and stress response
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Provide building blocks for hormone production (1-3g daily)

When to Seek Professional Support

Recovery from Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea typically takes 3-12 months, depending on the severity and duration of the condition. While some women see improvements within weeks of implementing these changes, others require more time and personalised support.

If you’re experiencing:

• Absence of periods for more than 3 months
• Symptoms that significantly impact your quality of life
• Concerns about fertility or bone health
• Difficulty implementing lifestyle changes alone

It’s time to seek professional guidance. As a naturopath specialising in women’s hormonal health, I can help identify the specific factors contributing to your HA and create a personalised recovery plan that addresses your unique needs.

Your Path to Hormonal Balance Starts Here

Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea is not just about getting your period back—it’s about restoring your body’s natural rhythms and creating sustainable health practices that support your hormonal wellbeing for life.

If your periods have disappeared or become irregular and you suspect Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea might be the cause, I invite you to book a consultation today. Together, we’ll investigate the root causes of your hormonal imbalance and develop a comprehensive plan to restore your menstrual health naturally.

Your body wants to heal—sometimes it just needs the right support to find its way back to balance.

References

Abou Sherif, S., Newman, R., Haboosh, S., Al-Sharefi, A., Papanikolaou, N., Dimakopoulou, A., Webber, L. J., Abbara, A., Franks, S., Dhillo, W. S., & Jayasena, C. N. (2021). Investigating the potential of clinical and biochemical markers to differentiate between functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea and polycystic ovarian syndrome: A retrospective observational study. Clinical endocrinology, 95(4), 618–627. https://doi.org/10.1111/cen.14571

Gordon, C. M., Ackerman, K. E., Berga, S. L., Kaplan, J. R., Mastorakos, G., Misra, M., Murad, M. H., Santoro, N. F., & Warren, M. P. (2017). Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 102(5), 1413–1439. https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2017-00131

Meczekalski, B., Katulski, K., Czyzyk, A., Podfigurna-Stopa, A., & Maciejewska-Jeske, M. (2014). Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea and its influence on women’s health. Journal of endocrinological investigation, 37(11), 1049–1056. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40618-014-0169-3

Mountjoy, M., Sundgot-Borgen, J., Burke, L., Carter, S., Constantini, N., Lebrun, C., Meyer, N., Sherman, R., Steffen, K., Budgett, R., & Ljungqvist, A. (2014). The IOC consensus statement: beyond the Female Athlete Triad–Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). British journal of sports medicine, 48(7), 491–497. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2014-093502

The post Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea – When your periods go AWOL appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.

I am thrilled to welcome Carissa back from maternity leave! After spending precious time with her beautiful baby girl, Poppy, Carissa is returning to practice and will be available for online consultations on Thursdays. In addition, she will be the primary practitioner handling email consults, making it easier than ever to get expert naturopathic support from the comfort of your home.

Get to Know Carissa

What’s your favourite thing about being a naturopath?

My favourite thing about being a naturopath is based on one of the naturopathic principles “the healing power of nature.” It truly amazes me just how interconnected we are with the planet; how herbs and nutrients can support the body in restoring balance. It’s really rewarding working with nature to guide my clients toward better health with the tools we can find in our backyard!

What’s your latest obsession?

Right now, my latest obsession is kids’ nutrition, especially since my little girl has just started solids. I couldn’t resist diving deep into it! I’m loving the book Boob to Food—it’s been a great resource for creating healthy, nutritious meals for my bub (and hub). I find myself reading it weekly and picking up new tips every time.

Current herb obsession and why?

If I had to choose a favorite herb, it would definitely be the beautiful dandelion! It’s such a versatile plant—supporting everything from digestion to detoxification. Plus, it makes such a delicious tea. It’s hands down one of the herbs I use most in my formulas, and I’m always amazed by its benefits.

Favourite meal?

My favourite meal would be grilled salmon with sautéed greens (especially broccolini, kale and Brussels sprouts) with roasted pumpkin or sweet potato—yum! I could eat this every day.

Favourite conditions to work with?

Some of my favourite conditions to work with are skin issues like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. I can really relate to these conditions, as I was that typical eczema kid growing up—constantly battling flare-ups due to a poor diet. It wasn’t until I discovered naturopathy that I started to find real relief, and now I’m passionate about helping others do the same.

What is something that you’ve learnt about pregnancy and motherhood since becoming a Mum?

Wow, where do I start? Since becoming a mum, what I’ve learned more than anything is just how incredibly adaptable the female body is, especially during pregnancy and motherhood. Our hormonal system is so complex, and it’s fascinating how it shifts and changes to support us through every stage—from conception to birth and beyond! What strikes me the most is the way our bodies respond to the demands of motherhood, from breastfeeding to the emotional rollercoaster we experience, and how everything is interconnected. As a naturopath, I’m in awe of how our bodies are designed to nurture and care for our little ones while keeping us balanced, even through all the changes we go through.

Carissa has a special interest in working with children’s health, pregnancy, and all aspects of skin health. Whether you’re looking for support with your little one’s health, navigating pregnancy and postpartum wellness, or addressing skin concerns naturally, Carissa brings her expertise and compassionate approach to every consult. Of course, as a fully trained naturopath, she is well-equipped to work with a wide range of health conditions, offering tailored, holistic solutions to support your well-being.

One unique aspect of working with Carissa is the incorporation of iridology into her consultations. Iridology is the study of the iris (the colored part of the eye) as a reflection of overall health and genetic predispositions. By analyzing patterns, colors, and markings in the iris, Carissa can gain valuable insights into your constitution, organ function, and potential areas of imbalance. For online consults, we make this process simple: before your appointment, we will send you instructions on how to take a clear photo of your iris and email it to Carissa. This allows her to integrate this valuable tool into your consultation, providing a deeper level of understanding and personalized recommendations.

Carissa also utilizes drop dose herbal prescribing, a method that involves using highly concentrated herbal extracts in small doses to create profound therapeutic effects. This gentle yet powerful approach allows for precise, individualized treatment, making it particularly effective for sensitive individuals, children, and those with complex health conditions.

Carissa is excited to reconnect with both new and existing clients and support you on your health journey. Whether through a video consult or an email consultation, she is here to help you feel your best with evidence-based naturopathic care.

The post Carissa is Back from Maternity Leave appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.

Have you ever wondered why so many seemingly unrelated health issues—like hormonal acne, period pain, fatigue, and digestive troubles—often appear together? The answer lies in the intricate relationship between your gut and your hormones. From processing nutrients essential for hormone production to eliminating excess oestrogen, your gut plays a pivotal role in keeping your hormones balanced.

In this post, I’ll explore how nurturing your gut can be the key to unlocking better hormonal health and overall well-being.

How Gut Health Influences Hormones

1. Microbiome and Hormonal Metabolism
   Your gut microbiota—the ecosystem of bacteria in your digestive tract—plays a critical role in regulating hormones. Specific bacteria in the microbiome metabolize and recycle hormones like oestrogen through the “oestrobolome.” An imbalanced microbiome, or dysbiosis, can lead to excess estrogen recirculation, increasing the risk of PMS, endometriosis, and estrogen-dominant conditions.
2. Nutrient Absorption
   The gut is responsible for absorbing key nutrients (like B vitamins, zinc, and magnesium) required for hormone production. Altered absorption can lead to deficiencies of these nutrients which are vital for healthy hormone balance.
3. Oestrogen Detoxification
   It also helps eliminate excess hormones, such as estrogen, through bowel movements. Issues like constipation or dysbiosis may reintroduce excess hormones into circulation, exacerbating imbalances.
4. Stress and the Gut-Brain Axis
   This connection goes both ways, as gut issues can affect stress hormones due to the role of the gut bacteria in production of neurotransmitters and cortisol levels. Chronic stress impacts your gut lining and microbiome diversity, impairing digestion and increasing inflammation. This can disrupt adrenal hormones, leading to fatigue, poor sleep, and heightened PMS symptoms. It’s a vicious cycle.
5. Histamine and Ovarian Activity
   Dysbiosis can cause an overproduction of histamine, a compound involved in immune and allergic responses but also strongly involved in conditions like endometriosis and IBS. High histamine levels can stimulate the ovaries to produce more estrogen, exacerbating conditions like oestrogen dominance and premenstrual symptoms.

Signs Your Gut and Hormones Are Out of Sync

• Persistent digestive issues (bloating, constipation, reflux, nausea, poor appetite or diarrhea).
• Hormonal symptoms like acne, mood swings, or irregular periods.
• Low energy or brain fog that doesn’t improve with sleep or rest.
• Skin conditions such as eczema, acne or easy welting.

Steps to Support Your Gut and Hormonal Health

• Dietary Choices
  • Incorporate fibre-rich foods (vegetables, legumes, and whole grains) to feed healthy bacteria.
  • Add fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir, which provide beneficial probiotics (not as much of this if you have histamine issues).
  • Have a variety of plant foods to help provide beneficial nutritional compounds and a variety of fibre types, which reduces inflammation in the gut and supports microbiome diversity.
  • Limit inflammatory foods, including sugar, alcohol, and processed items, to reduce systemic inflammation
• Supplement Strategically
  • Use strain-specific probiotics that are specific to your health concerns to support gut diversity and hormone metabolism. Consult a naturopath to find the right strains for your needs.
• Feed the gut bugs
  • Specific prebiotic fibres can help to reduce the overgrowth of bacteria which impair oestrogen detoxification.
  • Glucomman, found in konjac noodles are helpful in reducing betaglucoradinase.
  • PHGG is a low fodmap prebiotic fibre that is a good allrounder, helping to regulate bowel motions and supporting microbiome balance.
• Stress Management
  • Chronic stress and poor sleep disrupt the gut-brain axis, which can dysregulate hormones. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or gentle walks to calm the nervous system
• Hydration and Gentle Detoxification
  • Drinking sufficient water supports bowel regularity and toxin elimination. Simple rituals like starting the day with warm water and lemon or apple cider vinegar can enhance digestion.
  • Adequate fibre and water helps with regular bowel motions which is important because you need regular bowel motions to support oestrogen detoxification and clearance.
• Restorative Practices
  • Improve sleep to regulate cortisol and support nightly hormone repair.
  • Incorporate gentle, restorative exercise, such as walking or pilates, to avoid over-stressing the adrenals.

Long-Term Benefits

Balancing your gut is the foundation for hormonal health. By addressing digestive issues, supporting your microbiome, and managing inflammation, you can improve symptoms such as period irregularities, skin problems, and fatigue.

By healing your gut, you’re not only improving digestion but also empowering your body to regulate hormones naturally. Balanced hormones mean better skin, more energy, fewer mood swings, better hormone balance.

Supporting your gut is a long-term investment in your health. By adopting these practices and seeking personalized care from a naturopath, you can achieve better balance and resilience in both your gut and hormones.

Disclosure: Links to products are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

The post The Connection Between Your Gut and Hormonal Health appeared first on Alison Mitchell Naturopath.