Blood sugar balance!
Across the board of hormonal issues from PCOS, endometriosis, metabolic syndrome, to thyroid issues, you will notice that insulin resistance and blood sugar control are one of the most common underlying factors.
During our cycle cortisol and insulin play a huge part.
In our 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗽𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗲 where resting cortisol is generally lower, your body may be more favorable toward insulin sensitivity. So during this time you can increase certain whole food carb sources as your body is more equipped to deal with it.
During the 𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗲 though where cortisol is slightly higher, your body is more resistant to insulin. Therefore certain low glycemic carbs sources or just a reduced amount during this phase assist your body.
This doesn’t mean to cut out carbs all together during this phase, not at all! Just pick the right sources.
In addition, two things to help your body with blood sugar control:
1. Walk after meals (even if it’s just 20 mins)
2. Don’t leave your carbs naked. So pair your potatoes with a side of high fiber veggies like broccoli, mushroom etc. If you’re making a pasta, include veggies in your sauce like pumpkin and carrots along with a side salad to balance the meal. Try include apple cider vinegar in your dressings as this helps with the insulin sensitivity.
This is why it’s so important to understand your cycle, you will end up working with your body not against it.