To reduce elevated prolactin levels, several lifestyle, dietary, and medical approaches can be effective:
Dietary Changes
- Increase Vitamin B6 intake: Vitamin B6 supports dopamine production, which helps lower prolactin. Foods rich in B6 include fish, chicken, bananas, avocados, and chickpeas
- Avoid gluten-containing foods: Gluten (found in wheat, barley, rye) may trigger immune responses that increase prolactin levels, so eliminating gluten can help reduce prolactin
- Balance blood sugar: Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods high in sugar. Instead, consume fiber and protein-rich foods to stabilize blood sugar, which helps lower prolactin. Examples include broccoli, pumpkin seeds, seafood, beans, lentils, berries, kale, and flax seeds
- Avoid alcohol: Alcohol consumption raises prolactin by affecting dopamine production, so abstaining from alcohol is recommended
Lifestyle Modifications
- Manage stress: Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can increase prolactin. Techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and getting adequate sleep help reduce stress and prolactin levels
- Exercise moderately: Avoid high-intensity workouts as they may increase prolactin. Engage in low-intensity, mindful physical activity like walking or gentle yoga
- Avoid tight clothing: Some sources suggest avoiding tight clothing around the chest to prevent stimulation of prolactin release
Medical Treatments
- If high prolactin is caused by underlying conditions like hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone replacement (e.g., levothyroxine) can reduce prolactin
- Prolactinomas (pituitary tumors) may require medication or surgery to lower prolactin levels
- Vitamin E supplements may help reduce prolactin but should be taken under medical supervision due to possible side effects
- Herbal remedies like chasteberry have been used traditionally to support hormonal balance, but medical advice is essential before use
In summary, reducing prolactin involves a combination of dietary adjustments (increasing vitamin B6, avoiding gluten and sugar, no alcohol), stress management, moderate exercise, and addressing any medical causes with professional guidance
