by Feeling Great | Hormones
Dirty Dozen Chemicals to Avoid in Your Skincare Products
Protect Your Skin from Harmful Toxins – Chemicals to Avoid in Skincare
Every day, your skincare routine may be exposing you to harmful chemicals without you even realizing it. These toxins can disrupt hormones, trigger allergies, and irritate the skin. Some even contribute to long-term health issues, including immune system dysfunction.
While environmental toxins are everywhere, you have control over what goes on your skin. Choosing clean, toxin-free skincare products is one of the best ways to protect your health.
Did you know that the chemicals you use today could also affect future generations? Baby girls are born with a lifetime supply of eggs, meaning the toxins you absorb may impact your future grandchildren. With thousands of new chemicals introduced every year, it’s essential to be mindful of what you apply to your skin.
The Dirty Dozen: Chemicals to Avoid in Skincare
1. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
These common foaming agents strip your skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Over time, they weaken the skin’s protective barrier, making it more prone to damage.
2. Parabens (Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, etc.)
Used as preservatives, parabens are found in 75-90% of personal care products. They mimic estrogen, disrupt hormones, and may contribute to skin irritation and long-term health risks.
3. Fragrance or Parfum
The word “fragrance” hides hundreds of undisclosed chemicals, many of which can cause skin allergies, respiratory irritation, and hormone imbalances. Choose fragrance-free products whenever possible.
4. DEA, TEA, and MEA (Cocamide DEA, Lauramide DEA, Triethanolamine)
These ingredients help products foam and stabilize pH levels, but they also trigger skin irritation and allergic reactions. Some studies link them to hormonal disruption.
5. Phthalates
Often hidden in fragrance formulas, phthalates mimic estrogen and have been linked to birth defects, infertility, and developmental issues. Avoid any products that list “fragrance” without clear ingredient details.
6. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives (Quaternium-15, DMDM Hydantoin, etc.)
These preservatives release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. They can also irritate the skin, impact the liver, and weaken the immune system.
7. Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, and Paraffin Oil
These petroleum-based ingredients clog pores and block the skin’s natural detox process. Some may even be contaminated with harmful toxins. Instead, opt for natural alternatives like beeswax or plant-based oils.
8. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
PEG compounds weaken the skin’s barrier, increasing chemical absorption. They can also cause irritation and sensitivity, especially on delicate skin.
9. Triclosan
Found in antibacterial soaps and skincare, triclosan is known to disrupt hormones and contribute to antibiotic resistance. It’s been banned in some countries, but it still appears in many personal care products.
10. Coal Tar and Coal Tar Dyes
Common in hair dyes and anti-dandruff shampoos, coal tar is linked to cancer and heavy metal contamination, which can be toxic to the brain.
11. Silicones and Siloxanes
Used in haircare and anti-aging products, silicones create a film over the skin that traps dirt and bacteria. Some types may disrupt hormonal balance.
12. BHA and BHT
These preservatives, commonly found in moisturizers and makeup, are potential carcinogens that can cause skin irritation and disrupt hormones.
How to Reduce Your Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
Switching to clean skincare doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take small steps to reduce your exposure and make safer choices.
- Declutter Your Skincare Products – Check your labels and remove products that contain harmful ingredients.
- Make Gradual Swaps – Replace one product at a time with natural, toxin-free alternatives.
- Use Trusted Resources – Apps like Chemical Maze, Skin Deep Database, and Low Tox Life help you identify safer skincare options.
- Explore Eco-Friendly Skincare – Look for natural skincare brands like Ecology Skincare, which offers moisturizers and cleansers for sensitive skin.
Final Thoughts: Make Safer Skincare Choices
Choosing clean beauty products is a powerful way to protect your health. By avoiding the Dirty Dozen chemicals, you can support your skin, balance your hormones, and reduce exposure to toxins.
Share this guide with friends and family to help them make informed choices. Together, we can create a healthier future—one skincare product at a time.
Ready to Feel Your Best?
You can read List of Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Products and share with us your thoughts!
CLICK HERE to book a session with me and start your clean beauty journey!
by Feeling Great | Hormones
Get Rid of PMS with 5 Simple Steps
Want to Get Rid of PMS? Are you tired of dealing with PMS every month? You’re not alone—75% of women experience PMS symptoms that affect their mood, energy, and daily life. From headaches and bloating to mood swings and fatigue, PMS can make everything feel harder.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to suffer! Many women think PMS is just a part of life, but with a few simple changes, you can reduce or even eliminate your symptoms.
Let’s dive into five simple steps to Get Rid of PMS and reclaim your energy.
What Causes PMS?
PMS isn’t a flaw in your body—it’s often a sign of hormonal imbalance. The main culprit? Excess estrogen and low progesterone. When your body isn’t clearing estrogen properly, symptoms like bloating, breast tenderness, and fatigue become worse.
Kristen, one of my clients, struggled with PMS for three weeks out of every month. She relied on anti-inflammatories, antidepressants, and migraine medication just to function. After testing her hormone levels and lifestyle patterns, we found that simple changes helped her eliminate PMS—without medication!
If Kristen could do it, so can you. Here’s how.
5 Simple Steps to Get Rid of PMS
1. Clean Up Your Drinking Habits
What you drink has a huge impact on your hormones. Reducing caffeine and alcohol can help your body process excess estrogen more effectively.
- Cut back caffeine (coffee, tea, green tea, hot chocolate) to one cup per day
- Limit alcohol to one drink per week—opt for vodka, lime, and soda instead of wine
- Drink at least two liters of water daily to flush out toxins
2. Improve Your Eating Habits
Food plays a key role in hormonal balance. The right diet can stabilize blood sugar, reduce cravings, and ease PMS symptoms.
- Eat more vegetables, fruit, nuts, and seeds
- Reduce sugar and processed carbs (lollies, bread, pasta, cakes)
- Include quality protein at every meal—think eggs, beans, chicken, fish, and nuts
3. Get Moving
Exercise boosts circulation, clears excess fluid, and stabilizes blood sugar, all of which help reduce PMS.
- Aim for 20 minutes of movement daily
- Keep your heart rate at 180 minus your age (moderate intensity)
- Even simple activities like walking, stretching, or dancing can help
4. Manage Your Stress Levels
Chronic stress worsens PMS by increasing cortisol, which disrupts hormonal balance. Reducing stress helps your body function properly.
- Practice deep abdominal breathing (inhale for 4, hold for 16, exhale for 8)
- Spend time outdoors—fresh air and nature reduce stress
- Declutter your life and prioritize self-care daily
5. Detox Your Body
Toxins in plastics, processed foods, and personal care products mimic estrogen, making PMS worse. Reducing exposure helps balance hormones.
- Avoid heating food in plastic containers—use glass or stainless steel
- Support your liver with a gut and liver detox
- My 6-week Detox Program helps clear excess estrogen—CLICK HERE to get started!
Ready to Say Goodbye to PMS?
PMS doesn’t have to control your life. With the right nutrition, movement, stress management, and detoxification, you can balance your hormones and feel amazing again.
If you want to read about hormonal chaos and how to find way out, Here’s Constant Sinus Headaches and Migraines? Maria’s Story and Hormonal Imbalance Causes and Solutions Explained!
Need help? CLICK HERE to book a session and take the first step toward a PMS-free life.
Julie xx
Feeling Great Health Solutions 0438593523
by Feeling Great | Hormones
Constant Sinus Headaches and Migraines? Maria’s Story
Struggling with Persistent Sinus Headaches and Migraines? You’re Not Alone
Maria had been dealing with chronic sinus headaches and migraines for over a year. The constant pain, brain fog, and exhaustion had become her daily reality.
She relied on anti-inflammatories every day and took prescription migraine medication multiple times a month. Despite her best efforts, the headaches never truly went away.
On top of that, she was working five to six days a week in a demanding office job that was understaffed and overwhelming. Sound familiar?
The pain was relentless. It was affecting her work, focus, and overall quality of life. She had reached her tipping point. Something had to change.
The Turning Point: Seeking a Solution for Sinus Headaches and Migraines
Maria finally decided enough was enough. She needed a solution—not just another quick fix. That’s when she walked into my office, looking for a way to break free from the cycle of pain.
After listening carefully to her story, one thing stood out: food intolerances.
Many people don’t realize that certain foods can trigger inflammation, sinus pressure, and migraines. Maria was open to exploring this possibility, so we tested for sensitivities and made key dietary changes.
The Results: A Life Without Headaches
Within just 14 days, Maria’s headaches completely disappeared.
Her energy levels skyrocketed, her brain fog lifted, and she felt clear-headed for the first time in years.
She couldn’t believe how quickly things changed. She told me:
💬 “I can’t believe what a huge difference it’s made changing what I eat in such a short amount of time.”
The cycle had been broken. Now, instead of managing pain, she was enjoying life again.
Why Addressing the Root Cause Matters
Many people patch up symptoms rather than fixing the underlying problem. But wouldn’t it be easier to clean up at the start instead of constantly treating issues later?
Making small but powerful changes can save you:
- Money (less spent on medications and treatments)
- Time (no more wasted sick days or doctor visits)
- Energy (so you can focus on what truly matters)
Simplicity is key. When you address the root cause, everything else falls into place.
Ready to Break Free from Constant Headaches?
If you’re stuck in an endless cycle of sinus headaches, migraines, or brain fog, it’s time to take action. For another sinus information, read How to Get Rid of a Sinus Infection or you can read Get Rid of PMS with 5 Simple Steps and share with us what you think about it.
Book an initial consult HERE, and let’s find out what’s triggering your symptoms so we can get you on the road to recovery.
You don’t have to live with pain—let’s get you feeling great again!
by Feeling Great | Hormones
Hormones and Weight Gain After 40: Take Back Control
Hormones and Weight Gain – Don’t Settle for Fat, Frumpy, and Grumpy
Recently, I came across a social media comment that truly shocked me about Hormones and Weight Gain:
“I think for women between 40 and 55, we’ve given up on losing weight because of metabolism and hormone changes through menopause…”
Wow… really? I was horrified by the collective acceptance of that mindset. It immediately made me picture someone lying on train tracks, accepting their fate instead of taking action.
Let’s be clear—there’s no need to surrender to weight gain, exhaustion, or mood swings.
The good news? It’s all fixable. I help women rebalance their hormones every single day. With a background in pharmacy and naturopathy, plus 25 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand that hormonal imbalances can be corrected.
If you feel tired, sluggish, or frustrated with stubborn weight gain, your hormones may just need a reset.
Understanding Hormones and Their Impact on Weight
Hormones control everything from metabolism to mood. When they become unbalanced, weight gain and fatigue can follow.
Signs Your Hormones Are Out of Balance
- Thyroid Issues – Fatigue, constipation, thinning hair, stubborn weight gain, depression, and brain fog.
- Adrenal Dysfunction – Trouble sleeping, anxiety, belly fat, sugar cravings, irritability, and night sweats.
- Insulin Resistance – Expanding waistline, brain fog, dry mouth, fluctuating energy levels.
- Sex Hormone Imbalances – Low libido, irregular cycles, hot flashes, PMS, mood swings, and fibroids.
Since hormones interact in complex feedback loops, imbalances rarely exist in isolation. That’s why comprehensive testing is key.
Why Blood Tests Don’t Always Show the Full Picture
Standard hormone blood tests only measure total hormones, not the active (unbound) hormones that influence how you feel.
That’s why salivary hormone testing is a far better option for assessing adrenal and sex hormones.
It’s affordable and a powerful step toward feeling and looking your best.
Everyday Factors That Disrupt Hormones
Modern life is full of hidden hormone disruptors. Here’s what could be messing with yours:
- Toxic Chemicals – Found in food, water, air, plastics, household cleaners, and cosmetics. These mimic hormones and interfere with natural balance. Switch to low-tox products for better hormonal health.
- Too Much Sugar & Refined Carbs – Cakes, biscuits, and processed foods disrupt blood sugar levels and alter hormone activity.
- Not Enough Healthy Fats – Avocados, nuts, seeds, coconut oil, and fish support hormone production. Avoid low-fat, processed diet products.
- Poor Gut Health – Your gut microbiome influences hormone regulation. Eat fiber-rich foods, fermented options like sauerkraut and kefir, and reduce inflammatory foods.
- Lack of Sleep – Poor sleep increases cortisol and disrupts overall hormone balance. Addressing sleep issues can dramatically improve how you feel.
- Too Many Stimulants – Caffeine and alcohol provide temporary relief but deplete essential nutrients and stress the adrenals.
Change Your Lifestyle, Change Your Hormones
“After 40, the rules of self-care change. It’s time to re-evaluate your habits.” – The Daily Mail
So, let’s ditch the idea that weight gain and exhaustion are inevitable.
You have two choices:
- Give up and accept feeling sluggish.
- Take action and regain your energy, vitality, and confidence.
You only get one body in this lifetime—so take care of it. For more hormones information? Try and read Finding Your Way Out of Hormonal Chaos and share us your thoughts!
CLICK HERE to book your hormone testing and start feeling incredible again.
With love,
Julie xx
by Feeling Great | Hormones, Mental Wellbeing
11 Simple Ways to De-Stress and Balance Your Hormones
Why Stress Is the Biggest Hormone Disruptor
De-Stress and Balance Your Hormones from making simple yet powerful daily changes.
“Stress is the trash of modern life – we all generate it, but if you don’t dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life.” – Terri Guillemets
Long ago, stress meant running from predators to stay alive. Today, it comes from work, relationships, financial pressures, and even the thoughts we replay in our minds.
At my naturopathic clinic in Mt. Martha, I see firsthand how chronic stress affects hormones. It disrupts the thyroid, blood sugar, adrenals, and sex hormones, leading to fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, and weight gain.
But here’s the truth: you can’t medicate your way out of an unhealthy lifestyle. Real balance comes from making simple yet powerful daily changes.
Let’s dive into 11 easy ways to reduce stress, reset your hormones, and reclaim your health.
1. Find the Magic in Everyday Life
Most of us rush through to-do lists without ever stopping to ask: Does this actually make me happy?
Take a step back. Notice the small joyful moments—a laugh with a friend, a beautiful sunrise, or a quiet cup of tea.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I spending time on things that bring real fulfillment?
- What daily moments make me feel truly happy?
2. Prioritize What Truly Matters
We can’t do everything at once, so focus on what counts.
Instead of just tackling your schedule, schedule your priorities. Family, health, and peace of mind should come before never-ending tasks.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I prioritizing my health and relationships over busyness?
- What’s one thing I can let go of today?
3. Declutter for a Clearer Mind
Excess clutter—both physical and mental—adds stress. Simplify your surroundings and free up your energy.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Do I own things that no longer serve me?
- What thoughts or habits can I let go of?
4. Plan Backward to Move Forward
Visualize your dream life, then work backward to create an action plan. Clarity comes from knowing where you’re headed.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- What future do I want to create?
- What steps will take me there?
5. Release the Past and Move Forward
Holding onto regrets, disappointments, or old wounds drains your energy. Let go and make room for new opportunities.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- How is the past limiting my future?
- What can I release to move forward?
6. Take Control of Your Choices
You can’t always control what happens, but you can control how you respond. Every moment, you have the power to choose peace over stress.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- What situation am I allowing to control me?
- How can I shift my response to regain my power?
7. Attract Positivity with the Right Mindset
What you focus on, grows. If you dwell on negativity, you invite more of it. Instead, focus on what you want to attract.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Are my thoughts lifting me up or dragging me down?
- How can I shift my focus to invite better energy?
8. Get Outside and Reconnect with Nature
Fresh air, trees, and sunshine are natural stress relievers. Even a short walk can calm your mind and boost your mood.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I spending enough time outside?
- How can I bring more nature into my routine?
9. Stop Waiting for “Someday”—Live Now
“If only I had more time, more money, or a different situation…” These thoughts keep you stuck. Happiness is in the present moment.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I delaying happiness, waiting for the “perfect” time?
- What can I appreciate right now?
10. Discover Your Purpose and Live with Intention
A clear sense of purpose creates direction and fulfillment. Define what lights you up and start living it every day.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- What activities make me feel alive?
- How can I bring more purpose into my daily life?
11. Slow Down to Find Balance
In a fast-paced world, slowing down can actually help you move forward with more clarity and ease.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I rushing through life without being present?
- What’s one thing I can do today to slow down and enjoy the moment?
Need Help Balancing Your Hormones?
Struggling with fatigue, mood swings, stress, or weight gain? It could be your hormones! Let’s get to the root cause and create a plan to restore balance.
CLICK HERE to book a consultation and start feeling better now!
Your health is worth it. Let’s reset your hormones and bring back your energy!
by Feeling Great | Hormones
Treat Low Libido Naturally
Has Your Libido Taken a Nose Dive? Here’s Why & How to Fix It
Has your sex drive dropped dramatically? You’re not alone. Your libido is like a health indicator—it reflects your overall physical, mental, and hormonal balance.
Many people struggle with low sex drive, along with fatigue, poor sleep, bloating, and skin issues. These aren’t random symptoms; they’re signs that your hormones are out of sync.
Before reaching for a quick fix, let’s explore the
four key causes of low libido and six natural ways to bring it back.
4 Causes of Low Sex Drive
1. High or Low Cortisol
Chronic stress disrupts cortisol, your body’s main stress hormone. When it’s out of balance, it robs other sex hormones, reducing libido. Signs include:
- Feeling exhausted but wired
- Sugar cravings
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weight gain around the waist
2. Imbalanced Estrogen
Estrogen and progesterone work together to regulate your cycle and mood. When estrogen is too high or too low, symptoms may include:
- Bloating and fluid retention
- Mood swings and PMS
- Irregular or heavy periods
- Vaginal dryness
3. Low Thyroid Function
Your thyroid controls energy, mood, and metabolism. When sluggish, symptoms include:
- Fatigue, especially in the morning
- Unexplained weight gain
- Cold hands and feet
- Brain fog and low mood
4. High or Low Testosterone
Testosterone plays a role in sex drive, energy, and confidence. If too high, you may experience acne, facial hair growth, or skin tags. If too low, signs include:
- Fatigue and depression
- Low muscle tone
- Reduced libido
6 Natural Ways to Boost Low Libido
1. Add Maca to Your Diet
Maca root is a powerful adaptogen that naturally increases libido, reduces anxiety, and supports hormone balance. Add 1 tablespoon to your daily smoothie.
2. Support Your Adrenal Glands
Chronic stress depletes DHEA, a key hormone for testosterone production. Prioritize self-care—meditate, get enough sleep, and take breaks to recharge.
3. Bring Pleasure Into Everyday Life
Enjoying simple pleasures daily—like listening to music, taking a bath, or getting a massage—helps shift your brain into a pleasure-receptive state, making intimacy more enjoyable.
4. Explore What Works for You
Spice things up by trying new things! Read articles, watch videos, or take an intimacy workshop to rediscover what excites you.
5. Eat for Hormone Balance
To clear excess estrogen, support your liver and gut by:
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Drinking dandelion root tea
- Eating fiber-rich vegetables
- Including healthy fats like avocados and nuts
6. See a Health Professional
If your libido has disappeared, your hormones may be imbalanced. Get tested and create a personalized plan to restore your energy, mood, and sex drive.
Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?
If your sex drive is low, don’t ignore it—it’s your body’s way of asking for help. Book a consultation today to get your hormones back on track and start feeling amazing again!
