Androgens are a hot topic as of late, you hear many women mention their struggles with high androgens. Androgens are basically hormones that contribute to growth and reproduction in both men and women. Androgens are usually thought of as male hormones, but the female body naturally produces a small number of androgens too. 

With high androgens come some of these symptoms. 

1. Irregular cycles
2. Facial hair
3. Difficulty with pregnancy 
4. Acne
5. Deepening of voice

–

Oftentimes high androgens are a symptom of PCOS, better known as polycystic ovarian syndrome. Another cause of high androgens is due to high levels of DHEA, which is usually elevated due to stress. Women with high-stress levels more often than not have high androgen levels. What does this mean? Women that are stressed have high androgen levels. This can also mean that the other hormones in the body are out of wack as well. Progesterone declines and testosterone and estrogen increase. This is creating a perfect environment for the androgens to keep on increasing. 

This is why it is so important to support the body to produce and balance your hormones properly. Putting an emphasis on reducing stress and increasing your progesterone levels for optimal ovulation. 

How do we do this: 

1. Balancing your blood sugar levels by eating every 3-4 hours. This will keep stress down and encourage hormone production, especially if you are fueling your body properly with high-quality foods. 
2. Eating enough carbs to help fuel the liver to support proper detoxification and excretion of hormones. 
3. Eating plenty of animal protein to provide essential amino acids for optimal function and blood sugar control. 
4. Eating plenty of nutrient and mineral-dense foods that provide massive amounts of b vitamins, vitamin a, vitamin d, and vitamin k. 
5. Stop stressing the body with excessive exercise and low-calorie diets. Your body needs fuel and nourishment to function properly. 
6. Some supplementation with recommendations and direction from your practitioner can help. Saw palmetto can be a great option.