How To Reduce Prolactin Level Safely And Effectively?

What Is Prolactin And Its Functions?

Prolactin is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland and has several functions in the human body. It plays an important role in lactation and in forming breast tissue. Prolactin can increase during pregnancy and after birth when mothers are breastfeeding. Prolactin has many functions in the body, but two primary ones are most widely known. They are:

• Stimulate the growth of mammary glands in the breasts
• Encourage the growth of breastmilk during breastfeeding

What Are The Normal Prolactin Levels?

The average levels of prolactin are as follows:

• Males – Prolactin levels in males should be less than 20 ng/mL
• Non-Pregnant Women – Prolactin levels in non-pregnant women should be less than 25 ng/mL
• Pregnant or Nursing Women – Prolactin levels in pregnant women should be between 80 ng/mL and 400 ng/mL

Although the ranges shown above are averages, they may vary slightly depending on the laboratory performing the test, so always ask your doctor if you have questions about your prolactin level results.

What are the Symptoms of High Prolactin Levels?

The following symptoms can indicate high levels of prolactin in an individual:

• Women: Irregularity or absence of menstrual cycles, milky discharge from nipples (that is not associated with breast milk production), tenderness of breast tissue, and inability to conceive.
• Men: Decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, and breast enlargement (gynecomastia).
• Both Men and Women: Headaches, changes in visual acuity (due to a pituitary tumour), fatigue, and instability in emotional state.

How To Reduce Prolactin Levels Naturally?

The following are natural methods to help lower your prolactin levels.

• Stress increases cortisol levels, which in turn raise your prolactin levels. To manage stress, try deep breathing and meditation. This helps to relax your nervous system. Yoga and Tai Chi help to decrease stress hormones naturally.
• Sleep 7-9 hours each night. Sleep helps the body balance hormones.
• Extreme exercise may increase your prolactin levels; moderate exercise will help. Incorporate strength training and cardiovascular training into your routine. This will cause your body to release more dopamine, which helps suppress prolactin levels.
• The actual functioning of your thyroid will affect your prolactin levels. To support your thyroid's health, consume foods high in iodine, including seaweed, eggs, and dairy products.
• Limit exposure to estrogen-mimicking chemicals. Endocrine disruptors are found in some plastics and cosmetics. Use glass or stainless steel containers instead of BPA plastics. Choose natural skin care products to limit exposure to parabens and phthalates.

What Foods Help To Reduce Prolactin Levels?

• Eating certain foods can help to balance your prolactin levels. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is found in bananas, chickpeas, potatoes, and salmon.
• Eat foods rich in zinc, including pumpkin seeds, lentils, oysters, and beef.
• Consume fats containing omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish, support hormone regulation.
• Avoid processed foods and alcohol. Both types of foods can disrupt hormone levels.

Which Medications Can Be Used To Decrease Prolactin?

When natural therapies are ineffective, medical professionals may prescribe medications. Medications work by stimulating dopamine receptors to prevent prolactin release. For those with severely elevated prolactin levels (such as with prolactinoma), medications typically produce the best results.

Why Is Sleep Important To Manage Prolactin Levels?

Sleep is important to regulate hormone balance. Below is a breakdown of how the various stages of sleep and hormone production work.

• During the early hours of deep sleep, the growth hormone is released. This hormone helps the body build muscle, heal tissue, and assist in numerous other cellular processes.
• Poor and irregular sleep patterns may elevate cortisol levels, which can subsequently negatively affect other hormones, including prolactin.
• Poor or inadequate sleep reduces insulin sensitivity, leading to elevated blood sugar levels, which can further contribute to hormonal imbalance.
• Lack of sleep can cause the thyroid gland to become less effective, leading to inadequate release of thyroid hormones.
• Insufficient sleep may negatively affect estrogen and progesterone levels, potentially harming reproductive health.

When To Get Medical Care For High Prolactin Levels?

It's important to receive medical care if you have the following issues:

• You have symptoms that have not improved after making lifestyle changes
• You have visual problems or migraines (possible pituitary growth)
• You are taking medications that may cause increased levels of prolactin.

Conclusion

Prolactin is an essential hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It helps to produce breast milk and is a part of the reproductive process. When prolactin levels are elevated, it can create several issues for women, like problems losing weight, infertility, and mood swings. The body's blood sugar level must be kept balanced through the consumption of food, vitamins, minerals, and herbs. If a woman's blood sugar becomes unbalanced, the body will experience increased stress and, therefore, increased cortisol levels. Vitamin B6 has been shown to naturally lower prolactin levels by strengthening dopamine signalling in the hypothalamus. Excess weight is also associated with elevated prolactin levels; therefore, regular exercise and a healthy diet are critical for combating this issue. It is important to lead a healthy lifestyle and healthy habits if you want to maintain your health and normal prolactin levels. We hope this information helps you maintain normal prolactin levels; however, if you still have concerns, speak with your doctor.