In the Flo: Unlock Your Hormonal Advantage and Revolutionize Your Life

by Alisa Vitti

For example, the foods in the follicular phase are reflective of our inner spring. These foods tend to be lighter, which fits with this phase when metabolism is naturally a bit slower. Follicular foods also have a bit of astringency, making them particularly good for liver function and detoxification. In the ovulatory phase, which is our inner summer, the foods help our bodies balance out the spike in estrogen and support the heart. In the luteal phase, which corresponds to our inner fall, the fiber-rich foods support the large intestine to increase transit time, which is critical during the luteal phase, when progesterone levels increase and slow digestion. The nutrient-dense foods here also correspond to the fact that your body’s metabolism naturally speeds up in this phase. During menstruation, which reflects our inner winter, it’s important to stock up on micronutrients that build up the blood, because you are losing blood as you shed the lining of your uterus. These foods also support the kidneys and help balance hormones as their levels drop during your monthly bleed.