Hormones, Neurodiversity & Seed Cycling: Gentle Support for Focus, Mood & Emotional Regulation

Welcome to Part 3 of our blog series with Tessa from The Nourish Hut, where we continue exploring how nutrition and hormonal rhythms can gently support neurodivergent individuals.

 

In Parts 1 and 2 of this series, we explored the foundations of how nutrition can support neurodivergent individuals. We looked at the gut–brain connection, the microbiome, and the role digestion plays in mood, energy, and emotional balance. We also covered key nutrients, whole-food foundations, sensory-friendly eating, and common food sensitivities, along with simple nutrition wins to support daily wellbeing.

In this blog, you can expect:

• A look at how hormones uniquely influence neurodivergent women

• Why cycle fluctuations can intensify ADHD or ASD traits

• An introduction to seed cycling as a gentle hormonal support

• How food-based practices can help create more emotional and cognitive stability

Hormones and Neurodiversity: An Overlooked Connection

Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can influence attention, mood, and emotional regulation, especially in women with ADHD. Oestrogen plays a key role by affecting dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to motivation and focus. When oestrogen levels decline, dopamine activity may diminish, potentially leading to a worsening of ADHD symptoms or a downturn of mood.

Struggling with hormonal ups and downs—and noticing shifts in ADHD or ASD symptoms around your cycle? You're not alone, and there are gentle, food-based ways to support your body.

One natural method gaining attention for supporting hormonal health is seed cycling, a simple yet effective method that involves eating specific seeds during different phases of your menstrual cycle. Flax and pumpkin seeds are used in the first half (the follicular phase), while sunflower and sesame seeds are included in the second half (the luteal phase). These nutrient-rich seeds contain essential fatty acids, lignans, and minerals that help support hormone metabolism and promote a more balanced cycle.

To make this process even easier, you can now purchase ready-mixed seed blends from companies like Seed Cycle, who have removed the guesswork with beautifully prepared, phase-specific mixes. Perfect for busy lives or those new to the practice.

Shop Seed Blends and Whole Seeds

Your cycle is not something to fight against; it's something to understand, support, and nourish.

Nutrition is a key factor in managing symptoms and enhancing overall well-being for individuals with ADHD and ASD. While we can't change the underlying conditions themselves, adopting targeted nutritional strategies, such as gut repair and hormonal balance, can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Each person is unique, and that's why it's so important to tailor nutritional strategies to fit each person perfectly. Guided by a qualified practitioner, these personalised plans can make a real difference. If you or a loved one are curious about how nutrition can play a supportive role in your well-being, I am here to support you every step of the way.

I am a dedicated functional nutritionist passionate about supporting neurodivergent health, digestive wellbeing, and emotional resilience. At The Nourish Hut, my personalised, evidence-informed approach focuses on collaboration and care tailored to each individual. I help clients make sustainable lifestyle changes that foster lasting health, balance, and well-being.

If you are curious about how nutritional therapy could help you or a loved one, The Nourish Hut would be happy to hear from you. We are here to guide you through a caring, supportive journey toward better health.

Feel free to reach out for a free discovery call, where we can chat about your needs and see if nutritional therapy feels like a good fit for you.  For more information visit: www.thenourishhut.co.uk