4 Essential Nutrition Tips to Maximize Health During Your Menstrual Cycle
Week 2 (Days 7 to 14): Proliferative Phase
The proliferative phase, also known as the follicular phase, occurs from day seven to roughly day 14 of an average 28-day cycle. During this phase, there is an increase in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to prepare the ovaries for egg release and estrogen to thicken the uterine lining to host an egg.
As estrogen levels rise, you’re likely feeling your best—strong, energetic, social, and upbeat. However, both high and low levels of estrogen can cause issues, such as heavy periods, weight gain, and fatigue (from too much estrogen) or missing periods, dry skin, and weak bones (from too little estrogen).
Phytoestrogen-Rich Foods
Cara Shaw recommends eating phytoestrogen-rich foods such as flaxseed, edamame, beans, legumes, and organic fermented soy products. Phytoestrogens can modulate estrogen levels, increasing them in times of need or regulating them when they are too high. You might prefer fresh, vibrant, and light foods like salads with pulses and lean meats during this phase.
