Note: even if you’re not seed cycling, these are delicious and nourishing! I’ve enjoyed through pregnancy and postpartum for nourishment, energy, and breastmilk production! I’ve love a combo of hemp, chia, and flax, and it’s delicious.
ok, on to the goods…
Apparently, I am on an oats kick. Last week, I shared easy overnight oats, and this week, I bring you super seedy oats: a combination of nourishing seeds and hearty oats for fuel, flavor, and perhaps unexpectedly, hormonal support too. I’ve been enjoying these most days of the week lately. They’re soul warming and the perfect fuel after a good workout, to prep before a long hike, or for whatever the day brings, really.
This recipe has made my experience with seed cycling super simple (and delicious), with the addition of specific seeds, depending on what phase of your cycle you’re in. Never heard of seed cycling? Let me share a quick overview: Seed cycling is the practice of eating specific seeds during the two main phases of your menstrual cycle (follicular and luteal) to help promote the healthy balance of estrogen and progesterone levels. It can help support balanced hormone levels, reduce PMS symptoms, boost fertility. Of course, all of this comes with the caveat that nothing is a cure-all, and the practice should accompany a balanced approach to overall wellness (read: intentional movement, balanced nourishment, prioritized mental health, and play). And, also of course, be sure to chat with your practitioner about your unique situation.
Ok, now, here’s what you do:
- Follicular phase (days 1-14 of your cycle or menstruation to ovulation): Enjoy 1 tablespoon each of ground flax seeds and ground pumpkin seeds.
- Luteal phase (days 15-first sign of menstruation): Enjoy 1 tablespoon each of ground sesame seeds and ground sunflower seeds.
During the follicular phase, pumpkin seeds and flax seeds help improve our estrogen levels while preventing excess estrogen. Flax seeds contain lignans which bind to excess estrogen. Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc which helps support progesterone production to support the rise into the second half of your cycle.
During the luteal phase, sesame seeds and sunflower seeds help boost progesterone production. Sesame seeds are a great source of zinc, which boosts progesterone production. They also contain lignans that help block excess estrogen while progesterone rises. Sunflower seeds are great for vitamin E (boosts progesterone) and selenium (helps detox excess estrogen).
I’ll report back as I give this whole process a go for a couple of months, so stay tuned! And know that you don’t have to seed cycle to enjoy this recipe. It’s balanced, energy and nutrient dense, and delicious. Enjoy!
super seedy oats
WHAT YOU NEED:
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1/3 cup organic gluten free oats (we love One Degree sprouted oats, and I tolerate them really well)
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 serving collagen of your choice (we love Paleovalley’s Bone Broth Protein; save 15% with code: RADICALROOTS)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon each of seeds of your choice: pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds (also love hemp seeds from Eaton Hamp – save 15% with code: MODERNMAMAS)
- Fruit mix in of your choice: 1/2 apple (cut into chunks), dried cherries, & dried dates.
- 1 tablespoon raw cream or milk of choice
- optional: I love adding my favorite double chocolate paleo protein for an extra boost and flavor (save 10% with that link)!
- optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (I skip this when I add the chocolate protein)
- Choose your toppers: your favorite nut butter, nuts, seasonal fruit, etc.
WHAT YOU DO:
Set a pot to medium high heat, and add your butter; then, once hot, add your oats, sea salt, and cinnamon, and stir until toasted.
Meanwhile, fill a measuring cup with 3/4 cup filtered water and mix in your protein powders (I use this frother/blender).
Pour liquid over oats, stir, and bring water down to a simmer.
Add chia seeds and apples or dried fruit, and continue stirring until water begins to cook down and oats reach desired consistency.
Once you have your desired consistency, remove from heat, add remaining seeds and a little cream, and continue stirring.
Move to a bowl, add toppings, and ENJOY Every bite!
Happy breakfasting, friends! I hope you enjoy with the ones you love. If you do, I’d love to hear about it! Comment below or tag me on social media. Sending love and nourishment, now and always!
Hugs, Laura
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