Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but did you know it can significantly impact your menstrual cycle? As a naturopathic doctor in Kelowna, I often see women struggling with irregular periods, painful cramps, or missed cycles, and stress is frequently a key factor. Understanding how stress affects your hormones can help you take control of your cycle and support your overall well-being.

Caffeine is a staple for many—whether it’s your morning coffee, matcha, or an afternoon pick-me-up. But have you ever noticed that some days, caffeine makes you feel amazing, while other times it leaves you jittery, anxious, or struggling to sleep? That’s because your hormones fluctuate throughout your cycle, affecting how your body processes caffeine.

For many women, the menstrual cycle is something that happens in the background—often an afterthought until symptoms like cramps, bloating, or mood swings appear. But what if you could use your cycle as a tool to better understand your health, optimize your workouts, and support your hormones naturally? Tracking your menstrual cycle is one of the most powerful (and underutilized) ways to gain insight into your body’s rhythms.

The luteal phase, the period between ovulation and the start of your period, can be a time when many women experience hormonal changes that impact their mood, energy levels, and even appetite.