Yes — you can start seed cycling even if you’re already in the middle of your menstrual cycle. While the practice is traditionally aligned with the beginning of your period, there’s no harm in starting mid-cycle. You simply begin with the seeds that correspond to the current phase you’re in (either follicular or luteal) and continue from there. Seed cycling is flexible and designed to support hormonal balance at any stage of your cycle.
If you’re unsure where you are in your cycle, here are a few tips:
- Track your period: If your last period started more than 14 days ago, you’re likely in the luteal phase.
- Notice symptoms: Increased energy and clearer skin may signal the follicular phase, while bloating or breast tenderness may indicate the luteal phase.
- Use apps or ovulation strips: These can help you pinpoint ovulation, which is key to understanding your cycle phase.
Once you determine your current phase, begin with the appropriate seeds. From there, continue the rotation as your cycle progresses.
Many women try seed cycling specifically to help regulate irregular cycles. In such cases, syncing your seed intake to the moon phases can be a helpful workaround:
- New Moon to Full Moon: Treat this as your follicular phase.
- Full Moon to New Moon: Treat this as your luteal phase
Understanding Seed Cycling Basics
To understand whether starting mid-cycle is okay, it helps to know how seed cycling works. The practice is based on aligning seed intake with your body’s natural hormonal shifts:
- Follicular Phase (Day 1 to ovulation): Flax and pumpkin seeds are rich in lignans and zinc, which may help support estrogen levels and prepare the body for ovulation.
- Luteal Phase (Ovulation to Day 28 or start of your period): Sesame and sunflower seeds provide selenium and vitamin E, which may support progesterone levels and reduce PMS symptoms.
This cycle is usually split into two 14-day phases, but flexibility is key since every woman’s cycle is different.
