Hormones

Progesterone

Progesterone is essential for regulating the menstrual cycle, supporting pregnancy, and balancing estrogen.

What it is

Progesterone is essential for regulating the menstrual cycle, supporting pregnancy, and balancing estrogen. Low progesterone can lead to irregular periods, mood swings, and fertility issues, while high progesterone may indicate ovarian cysts or adrenal imbalances. Monitoring progesterone levels helps assess reproductive health, hormone balance, and overall well-being, ensuring proper menstrual function, emotional stability, and optimal metabolic regulation.

What affects your levels

Low progesterone is often caused by chronic stress, estrogen dominance, anovulatory cycles, or thyroid disorders. Poor diet, excessive exercise, and aging may also contribute. High progesterone may result from adrenal dysfunction, ovarian cysts, or hormone therapy. Pregnancy naturally increases progesterone. Addressing hormonal imbalances through diet and lifestyle modifications helps optimize progesterone levels, supporting reproductive health and emotional well-being.

Signs and symptoms

Low progesterone can cause irregular cycles, PMS, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and difficulty conceiving. High progesterone may lead to bloating, fatigue, headaches, and mood swings. Chronic imbalances impact reproductive function, metabolism, and emotional well-being. Regular hormone testing, stress management, and a balanced diet help regulate progesterone levels, promoting menstrual health, fertility, and overall hormonal stability.

Foods that help

For low progesterone, vitamin B6-rich foods like bananas, poultry, and sunflower seeds help boost production. Zinc from shellfish and pumpkin seeds, along with magnesium from leafy greens, supports hormone regulation. Healthy fats from avocados, nuts, and olive oil promote progesterone synthesis. A well-balanced diet with adequate protein and fiber ensures stable progesterone levels, improving menstrual regularity and overall hormone balance.

Foods to limit

For low progesterone, excess sugar, refined carbohydrates, and trans fats can worsen hormonal imbalances. High estrogen foods like processed soy and alcohol may contribute to estrogen dominance, suppressing progesterone. For high progesterone, avoiding excessive dairy, refined oils, and artificial additives supports hormonal stability. Moderating inflammatory foods while focusing on whole, nutrient-dense choices promotes balanced progesterone levels.

Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every Pheno result is interpreted in context and reviewed by a physician.

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