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Nutrition

Fuel your body with the nutrients it needs. Learn how to eat for energy, hormonal balance, and long-term health.

Foundations of Women's Nutrition

Balanced Macros

The right balance of protein, carbs, and fats for sustained energy.

  • Protein: 0.8-1g per pound of body weight for active women
  • Carbs: Focus on complex carbs from whole grains and vegetables
  • Fats: Include healthy fats from avocados, nuts, and olive oil

Micronutrients

Essential vitamins and minerals women need most.

  • Iron: Crucial for menstruating women (18mg daily)
  • Calcium: For bone health (1000-1200mg daily)
  • Folate: Essential for reproductive health
  • Vitamin D: Supports immunity and bone health

Hydration

Proper water intake for energy, skin health, and metabolism.

  • Aim for 8-10 glasses (64-80 oz) daily
  • Increase with exercise and hot weather
  • Herbal teas and water-rich foods count too

Superfoods for Women

Nutrient-dense foods to prioritize in your diet.

Leafy Greens

Iron, folate, fiber

Try: Spinach, kale, arugula

Fatty Fish

Omega-3s, protein, vitamin D

Try: Salmon, sardines, mackerel

Berries

Antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C

Try: Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries

Legumes

Protein, fiber, iron

Try: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans

Nuts & Seeds

Healthy fats, protein, minerals

Try: Almonds, walnuts, chia, flax

Greek Yogurt

Protein, calcium, probiotics

Try: Plain, unsweetened varieties

Healthy Meal Ideas

Simple, nutritious meals for every part of your day.

breakfast

  • Greek yogurt parfait with berries and granola
  • Veggie omelet with whole grain toast
  • Overnight oats with chia seeds and banana
  • Smoothie with spinach, protein, and almond butter

lunch

  • Quinoa bowl with roasted vegetables and chicken
  • Large salad with salmon and avocado
  • Whole grain wrap with hummus and veggies
  • Lentil soup with side salad

dinner

  • Baked salmon with roasted broccoli and sweet potato
  • Stir-fry with tofu or chicken and brown rice
  • Turkey meatballs with zucchini noodles
  • Sheet pan chicken with vegetables

snacks

  • Apple slices with almond butter
  • Handful of mixed nuts
  • Veggie sticks with hummus
  • Hard-boiled eggs

Eating for Your Cycle

Optimize your nutrition based on your menstrual cycle phases.

Follicular Phase (Days 1-14)

Focus on: Fresh vegetables, lean proteins, fermented foods

Why: Support estrogen metabolism and energy rebuilding

Ovulation (Days 14-16)

Focus on: Raw vegetables, fruits, light grains

Why: Support liver detoxification during hormone peak

Luteal Phase (Days 17-28)

Focus on: Complex carbs, magnesium-rich foods, healthy fats

Why: Combat PMS symptoms and support progesterone

Menstruation

Focus on: Iron-rich foods, warming soups, anti-inflammatory foods

Why: Replenish iron and reduce inflammation

Practical Nutrition Tips

1

Prep Ahead

Spend 1-2 hours weekly prepping ingredients to make healthy eating easier.

2

Read Labels

Look for whole ingredients and watch for added sugars and sodium.

3

Progress Over Perfection

Small, consistent changes beat dramatic overhauls that don't last.

Nutrition | KC Women's Health