Think about hormones as the messengers of the body — they send chemical messages and affect processes of metabolism, mood, growth and development, sexual function and reproduction.

The most common causes of hormone imbalances are diet, stress, inflammation, infection and hormonal birth control. The health of your gut has a large effect on hormones as well. Balanced levels of microflora are directly correlated to balanced hormone levels.

We know they can be the cause of so many of our ills — breakouts, mood swings, PMS, random cravings, digestive and sleep issues, loss of libido and even anxiety. However, when they're in balance, hormones are to thank for keeping us healthy, energized, glowing and happy.

6 Tips To Balance Your Hormones

1. Healthy fats - certain fatty acids are crucial in order for our body to produce hormones. Did you know that Omega-3 fatty acids help to regulate your estrogen and testosterone levels? Healthy fats are not our enemies so make sure to include in your diet foods like coconut oil, avocados, olives, olive oil, nuts (also nut butters) and seeds. Avocados are also loaded with beta-sitosterol, which can effect blood cholesterol levels and help balance the stress hormone cortisol.

2. Clean protein - proteins provide essential amino acids that help you build cells throughout the body. They also assist your body in producing specific hormones, including insulin and growth hormone. Focus on these protein rich plant based foods: nuts, beans, seeds, lentils, tofu, tempeh and quinoa.

3. Antioxidants - are vital for neutralizing free radical damage triggered by oxidative stress. This is important for skin health and overall cellular function, but it also plays a role in helping maintain healthy hormones levels. Here are some antioxidant rich fruits and veggies: leafy greens, cabbage, bell peppers, onions, carrots, sweet potatoes, beets, berries, red grapes, peaches, apricots, mango, cantaloupe, watermelon and cacao. Cacao is also high in magnesium to boost your energy, helps you combat mood swings by increasing serotonin and makes your skin glow thanks to flavonoids.

4. Liver friendly foods - the liver is responsible for filtering out excess hormones that the body does not need. This could include hormones such as sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone) and thyroid hormones. The liver also needs plenty of fibre to function properly. Try these foods: whole grains, arugula, parsley, kale, beets, cauliflower, broccoli, green tea, berries and citrus fruits. Also do your best to reduce processed sugar and alcohol.

5. Adaptogens - are special compounds found in certain plants that have the ability to adjust to what your body needs. They help your body to deal with stress, boost immune function and balance out the hormones. If you're producing too much of a hormone, it can regulate production downward. If you're not producing enough hormones, adaptogens can regulate production upward. Most popular adaptogenic herbs for hormonal balance are Ashwagandha, Maca and Reishi Mushroom. In a powder form they can be easily added to your oatmeal, smoothies, chia pudding, salad dressings etc. You can also try Tulsi Tea (Holy Basil) that is lovely both as hot or iced tea.

6. Sleep & relaxation - poor sleep leads to imbalances of many hormones, including insulin, cortisol, leptin, ghrelin and growth hormone. No matter how nutritious your diet is, if you don't allow your body to slow down and restore, it won't function properly. Find time to recharge every day - go to bed earlier, take a nature walk, meditate, try restorative or yin Yoga, take a hot bath, read a book, listen to relaxing music.