Lifestyle
Nutrition
The #1 Hormone Women Over 40 Should Be Supporting (But Aren’t)
June 20, 2025 5 min read

How Low Levels of This Hormone Could Be Behind Your Mood Swings, Belly Fat, and Skin Changes
Feeling “Off” Lately?
If you’re over 40 and feeling moodier, puffier, or more tired than usual…
It’s not all in your head. And it’s not just “getting older.”
There’s a little-known hormone that plays a BIG role in your mood, weight, sleep, and even skin glow.
And for many women over 40, it’s quietly dropping fast.
Meet the Hormone: Progesterone

Most of us know about estrogen. But few women talk about progesterone — and it’s so important.
Progesterone is known as the “calming” hormone. It helps you:
- Sleep deeply
- Stay emotionally balanced
- Burn fat more efficiently
- Keep skin firm and clear
- Stay energized through the day
The problem? Around age 35–40, progesterone starts to dip, sometimes sharply — and this happens even before menopause.
Signs Your Progesterone Might Be Low
- Trouble sleeping or staying asleep
- Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability
- Weight gain (especially around your belly)
- Shorter cycles or heavier periods
- Dry skin or adult acne
- Feeling overwhelmed or “wired but tired”
If any of these sound familiar, your body might be calling out for progesterone support.
Why Balance Matters

Progesterone works in harmony with estrogen. When progesterone drops too low, estrogen becomes dominant — even if it’s not technically “high.”
This hormone imbalance can lead to:
- Breast tenderness
- Bloating
- PMS that feels worse than ever
- Skin dullness or sensitivity
- Midsection weight gain that won’t budge
The Beauty-Hormone Connection
Progesterone helps regulate collagen production and supports skin hydration.
When it drops, skin can feel thinner, drier, and lose that youthful bounce.
It also plays a role in reducing inflammation, which helps keep breakouts and redness in check.
5 Natural Ways to Support Progesterone
No need to reach for prescriptions (unless needed) — here are gentle, natural ways to help your body rebalance:
1. Manage Stress (Seriously)
Chronic stress steals progesterone — your body uses it to make cortisol.
Try breathwork, short walks, or even a few deep belly breaths throughout the day.
2. Eat More Zinc + Vitamin B6
These nutrients are key building blocks for healthy hormone production.
Think pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, salmon, and leafy greens.
3. Balance Blood Sugar
Stable blood sugar = balanced hormones.
Cut the sugar crashes, and focus on protein and fiber with every meal.
4. Seed Cycling
Flax and pumpkin seeds in the first half of your cycle sunflower and sesame in the second.
This ancient trick helps support natural hormone rhythms.
5. Try Natural Progesterone Creams (with guidance)

Bioidentical progesterone creams can help some women, especially during perimenopause — but always consult a trusted practitioner first.
You’re Not “Losing It” — You’re Just Low on Support
Hormone shifts after 40 are real. But you don’t have to “tough it out.” By giving your body the right support, you can feel more:
- Clear
- Calm
- Comfortable in your skin
…and yes — more like yourself again.