Follicular Phase Food List
The follicular phase can be a respite if you’ve been struggling with the bloating, mood swings, and cramps that can come with the Luteal and Menstrual phases.
This cycle phase tends to get overlooked because it comes and goes with few symptoms. However, eating to support a healthy follicular phase can set you up for success when it comes to the rest of your cycle.
What Is the Follicular Phase?
Technically follicular phase is the period from when you start bleeding until ovulation. For cycle syncing, I’ll be referring to the follicular phase as the period post menstruation, before ovulation. This portion of the cycle is also sometimes referred to as the proliferative phase. The uterus lining builds up during this time, and an egg is preparing for release.
Key Nutrients for Follicular Phase
Estrogen is the dominant hormone during this cycle phase. Therefore, it’s essential for women concerned about estrogen dominance to eat foods that help metabolize and flush out excess estrogen.
For example, foods such as cruciferous vegetables contain diindolylmethane (DIM). This phytonutrient can help balance estrogen levels. Fiber is another essential nutrient that helps remove excess estrogen from the body.
Follicular Phase Foods
When eating for the follicular phase, think Spring. Lightly sauteed vegetables and plenty of protein are essential during this period. I noticed that I have less of an appetite during this time, so I make it a point to do some meal planning to make sure I’m getting enough calories.
My follicular phase food list is based on Alisa Vitti’s book, Woman Code. I made a few changes for eating to manage fibroids. For example, Vitti’s list includes some grains that contain gluten. I left those off because I avoid gluten. It can be very inflammatory, and my goal is to reduce inflammation.
Grains & Legumes
- Gluten-free oats
- Green lentils
- Lima beans
- Mung beans
- Split peas
-
Black-eyed peas
Vegetables
- Green peas
- String beans
- Zucchini
- Parsley
- Artichoke
- Broccoli
- Carrot
- Lettuce (Boston, Bibb, Romaine)
-
Rhubarb
Fruit
- Avocado
- Lemon
- Lime
- Orange
- Plum
- Pomegranate
- Sour Cherry
-
Grapefruit
Nuts & Seeds
- Brazil nuts
- Nut butter
- Pumpkin seeds
- Flax seeds
- Chia seeds
-
Cashew
Other
- Olives
-
Sauerkraut
Meat
- Free-range, organic chicken*
-
Free-range, organic eggs*
*Some people have strong opinions about whether you should consume chicken and eggs if you have fibroids. I do eat both in moderation. Do your own research to determine what resonates as best for you.
These foods are particularly supportive of the follicular phase, but they are good to eat anytime during your cycle. Remember, cycle syncing your diet is a tool for cycle support, not a rule or special diet.
A very interesting post! I didn’t realize that certain foods were beneficial for each phase of the cycle.
Yes! Cycle syncing is a biohacking technique used to help facilitate more balanced hormones. Certain foods have properties and nutrients that can help you avoid symptoms of the different phases.
Thank you so much for all this information! Never realized what kind of impact food has on your periods. I thought as long as I have choclate I am fine 😜 Definately learned a lot through your post 🌸
Lol. There’s some truth to the chocolate thing, Karin. I’m glad you found the info helpful.
Excellent post so full of valuable info!
Glad you found it helpful, Daphne.