Cruciferous Veg & Oestrogen: What Every Woman Should Know

Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, bok choi, Brussels sprouts - they might not sound glamorous, but these humble veggies have a powerful role to play in hormone balance, especially when it comes to oestrogen.

Whether you’re dealing with PMS, skin issues, hair loss or PMDD, or just want to support your body in feeling its best, here’s why cruciferous veg are worth a regular spot on your plate - and how to eat them without getting bloated.

How They Help with Hormone Balance

Cruciferous veg contain special plant compounds that help your body process and clear out excess oestrogen. That’s important, because when oestrogen builds up or isn’t cleared properly, it can lead to things like heavier periods, bloating, mood swings, and stubborn weight around the hips and tummy.

These veg also support your liver, the organ responsible for ‘packaging up’ hormones and toxins so you can get rid of them. Think of them as giving your body a gentle nudge to do what it’s already designed to do, just more efficiently.

They can also help with fat metabolism and support testosterone balance too (yes, women have testosterone and it’s key for energy, motivation and libido).

Broccoli Sprouts: Tiny but Mighty

If you want to really up your game, broccoli sprouts are a super-concentrated version of all this goodness. They’re packed with sulforaphane, a powerful compound that supports detox, metabolism and hormone health.

You can buy them fresh, or sprout your own at home. A tablespoon or two a day is plenty, added to salads, soups or even blended into pesto.

Worried About Bloating? Here’s How to Eat Them Gently

Cruciferous veg can be a bit hard on the digestive system, especially if your gut’s a bit sensitive or you’re not used to eating much fibre. If you’ve ever felt gassy or bloated after eating cabbage, you’re not alone - but don’t give up on them completely.

Try this instead:

• Lightly steam them – it makes them easier to digest than raw.

• Start small – half a cup is plenty to begin with.

• Pair with herbs like ginger, fennel, cumin and caraway – to help reduce bloating.

• Try fermented versions like sauerkraut or kimchi – great for your gut too.

• Chew thoroughly - it sounds obvious but you’d be surprised how overlooked this point is.

Easy & Delicious Ways to Eat More

No sad soggy veg here. Cruciferous veg can be seriously tasty, it’s all about how you cook them.

Here are some simple ideas:

• Charred cauliflower steaks – roast thick slices with olive oil and spices, then drizzle with tahini or miso dressing.

• Pickled red cabbage – add to salads

• Brussels sprouts with maple & tamari – roast until crispy, then add a splash of sweet-salty glaze.

• Tofu & bok choi stir-fry – quick, delicious, and full of hormone-friendly goodness.

• Add a spoonful of sauerkraut to your plate – especially with eggs or grain bowls.

• Broccoli and salmon curry – spiced with fennel and cumin seeds

Cruciferous veg are some of the best foods for hormone support, especially for oestrogen balance, liver health and fat metabolism.

If you’re new to them, take it slow, cook them well and trust your body to guide you. A little each day can make a real difference over time and once you find ways to make them tasty, you’ll start craving them too.

Want to support your hormones naturally? These veg are a great place to start.