Seed cycling has been gaining popularity among women as a natural way to support hormonal balance, regulate menstrual cycles, and alleviate menstrual symptoms. However, some men have been asking if seed cycling is also beneficial for them, and the answer is yes! The four key seeds used in seed cycling - pumpkin, flax, sesame, and sunflower seeds - are rich in nutrients that can support men's hormonal and overall health.
First, let's take a closer look at the benefits of each seed.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, a mineral that plays a crucial role in male reproductive health. Zinc helps to produce and maintain healthy sperm, support prostate health, and regulate testosterone levels. A study published in Nutrition found that high zinc intake is associated with low insulin resistance in subjects with normal glucose tolerance, indicating that zinc may also improve metabolic health in men.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are rich in lignans, a type of phytoestrogen that can balance estrogen levels in both men and women. Flax seeds may also have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. A pilot study published in Urology explored the effects of a low-fat, flaxseed-supplemented diet on the proliferation of benign prostatic epithelium and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in men.
The results showed that flaxseed supplementation reduced PSA levels and slowed the growth of prostate cells, suggesting a potential role in prostate cancer prevention and treatment.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are a good source of lignans and healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials published in Food & Function found that sesame seed supplementation can improve serum levels of lipids, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers in humans. These benefits can support cardiovascular and metabolic health in men.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are a good source of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that can protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation. Sunflower seeds contain both alpha-tocopherol and tocotrienols, which have different metabolic pathways and antioxidant activities. A review article published in Journal of Food and Drug Analysis compared the metabolism, bioavailability, and antioxidant activity of alpha-tocopherol and tocotrienols and found that tocotrienols have stronger antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects than alpha-tocopherol. Now, let's talk about how men can use seed cycling to incorporate these seeds into their diet and support their health.
Men can take both Phase 1 and Phase 2 seeds together or follow the cycle of the moon. Phase 1 seeds are pumpkin and flax seeds, which support testosterone production. Phase 2 seeds are sesame and sunflower seeds, which support estrogen metabolism Yes, men do have estrogen in their bodies, although at much lower levels than women. Estrogen is important for male reproductive function, bone health, and cognitive function, among other things. However, an imbalance of estrogen in men can lead to a number of health issues, including decreased libido, infertility, gynecomastia (enlarged breasts), and an increased risk of certain cancers. Factors that can contribute to estrogen imbalance in men include aging, obesity, and exposure to certain environmental toxins.
How do Men Seed Cycle?
To seed cycle, men can consume a combination of the Phase 1 and Phase 2 seeds daily or follow the lunar calendar or moon phases. The Phase 1 seeds include flax and pumpkin seeds, while the Phase 2 seeds include sesame and sunflower seeds, certified organic, ground seeds are always best. If you're interested in seed cycling but unsure about how to get started,
The Seed Cycle has made it easy and convenient with their subscription service and bake mixes. We offer a 1 Month Pack that contains everything you need to get started, or you can sign up for their subscription service to receive a regular supply of products at a discounted rate. With freshly ground seeds and all natural ingredients, gluten free, refined sugar free and super delicious bake mixes to choose from, seed cycling has never been easier or more enjoyable. Give it a try and see the benefits for yourself!
In conclusion, seed cycling is not just for women - it can also be a beneficial practice for men to support their hormonal and overall health. Pumpkin, flax, sesame, and sunflower seeds are rich in nutrients that can support male reproductive health, prostate health, metabolic health, cardiovascular health, and anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Men can incorporate these seeds into their diet through seed cycling and enjoy the benefits of a natural and holistic approach to health.
References
- Pumpkin seeds:
- Gómez-Arbeláez, D., Alvarado-Jurado, L., Urrego-Giraldo, J. A., & López-Jaramillo, P. (2014). High zinc intake is associated with low insulin resistance in subjects with normal glucose tolerance. Nutrition, 30(5), 548-553. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nut.2013.10.011
- Flax seeds:
- Demark-Wahnefried, W., Robertson, C. N., Walther, P. J., Polascik, T. J., Paulson, D. F., & Vollmer, R. T. (2004). Pilot study to explore effects of low-fat, flaxseed-supplemented diet on proliferation of benign prostatic epithelium and prostate-specific antigen. Urology, 63(5), 900-904. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2003.12.031
- Sesame seeds:
- Wang, X., Chen, J., Kang, J., & Umar, S. (2020). The effects of sesame seeds supplementation on serum levels of lipids, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Food & Function, 11(7), 5984-5994. https://doi.org/10.1039/D0FO01013C
- Sunflower seeds:
- Chiang, A. N., & Wu, H. L. (2019). Y-tocopherol and tocotrienol: A comparative review of metabolism, bioavailability and antioxidant activity. Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, 27(4), 839-848. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfda.2019.04.007
The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle, particularly if you have a medical condition or are taking medications. The Seed Cycle Company does not provide medical advice or treatment recommendations.