The Period Repair Manual by Lara Briden: Book Summary, Habits & Products

Explore this book summary of Lara Briden’s The Period Repair Manual, which offers a deep dive into diet, supplements, habits, and menstrual health.

In this article

An Overview of The Period Repair Manual

Lara Briden’s Guide for Women

The Period Repair Manual is a heartfelt guide crafted by naturopathic doctor Lara Briden, designed to empower women who struggle with menstrual and hormonal issues. Briden’s expertise shines through as she offers a comprehensive toolkit for those seeking to understand and heal their bodies.

Healing Menstrual Misery

Many women grapple with menstrual disorders such as PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, and heavy periods. The Period Repair Manual addresses these conditions with empathy, providing a sense of relief and understanding. Briden’s approach is nurturing, acknowledging the distress these conditions cause and offering a path to better menstrual health.

Achieving Hormonal Harmony

Readers are on a quest for balance, yearning to restore their hormonal health and reclaim their lives. The book promises practical solutions and natural treatments that resonate with those tired of battling their own bodies. Briden’s guidance is a lighthouse for those navigating the often-stormy seas of hormonal imbalance.

Natural Solutions for Real Relief

The central themes of The Period Repair Manual revolve around natural health, the importance of nutrition, and the body’s innate ability to heal. Briden champions the use of herbal medicines and dietary changes, instilling confidence in readers that they can find solace in nature’s remedies.

Empowerment Through Education

Key takeaways from the book emphasize the power of knowledge and self-care. Briden stresses the importance of understanding one’s menstrual cycle, advocating for oneself in medical settings, and making informed choices about treatment options. She encourages women to become active participants in their journey to wellness.

Top 15 Habits in The Period Repair Manual

Embarking on a journey to better health requires adopting habits that support the body’s natural processes. The following practices are essential stepping stones toward achieving the outcomes promised by The Period Repair Manual. Each habit is a thread in the tapestry of holistic well-being, weaving together to form a picture of vibrant health.
  1. Charting Menstrual Cycles
    Understanding the patterns of one’s menstrual cycle is crucial for identifying irregularities and hormonal imbalances. This awareness allows for targeted interventions and fosters a deeper connection with one’s body.
  2. Eliminating Processed Foods
    Processed foods can exacerbate hormonal imbalances due to their high sugar content and artificial additives. By choosing whole foods, individuals support their endocrine system and improve overall menstrual health.
  3. Incorporating Nutrient-Dense Foods
    Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants provide the building blocks for hormone production and regulation. This habit is particularly beneficial for conditions like PCOS, where nutrition plays a pivotal role in management.
  4. Reducing Stress
    Chronic stress disrupts cortisol levels, which can lead to irregular periods and worsened PMS symptoms. Engaging in stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga can help restore hormonal balance.
  5. Prioritizing Sleep
    Adequate sleep is essential for hormonal balance and overall health. Poor sleep can aggravate menstrual symptoms and increase the risk of insulin resistance, often associated with PCOS.
  6. Regular Exercise
    Regular physical activity helps regulate menstrual cycles, reduce PMS symptoms, and improve insulin sensitivity, which is particularly important for those with PCOS or insulin resistance.
  7. Limiting Caffeine and Alcohol
    These substances can have a negative impact on hormonal balance and exacerbate conditions like PMS. Reducing intake can lead to more stable hormone levels and improved menstrual health.
  8. Supplementing Wisely
    Supplements such as magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins can support menstrual health. Lara Briden emphasizes the importance of personalized supplementation based on individual health needs.
  9. Avoiding Environmental Toxins
    Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals can interfere with hormonal health. Choosing organic products and avoiding plastics can reduce this exposure.
  10. Practicing Mindful Eating
    Being attentive to hunger cues and eating in a relaxed environment can improve digestion and nutrient absorption, which is beneficial for overall hormonal health.
  11. Maintaining a Healthy Weight
    Body weight can influence hormone production and menstrual regularity. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help alleviate menstrual disorders.
  12. Using Herbal Medicines
    Certain herbs, such as Vitex (chasteberry), can support menstrual health by promoting hormone balance. Lara Briden advocates for the use of herbal remedies under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
  13. Managing Blood Sugar Levels
    Stable blood sugar levels are vital for hormonal balance. Adopting a low-glycemic diet can help manage symptoms of PCOS and reduce the risk of diabetes.
  14. Seeking Professional Guidance
    Collaborating with a healthcare provider to address menstrual health issues ensures that treatments are tailored to individual needs and conditions.
  15. Fostering Community Support
    Sharing experiences and seeking support from others with similar health challenges can provide comfort and additional strategies for managing menstrual health.

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The Period Repair Manual Supplement List

  • Magnesium
    Lara Briden recommends magnesium for its role in supporting the menstrual cycle by reducing muscle cramps and calming the nervous system. It is involved in the synthesis of steroid hormones such as progesterone and can help to alleviate premenstrual symptoms.
  • Zinc
    Zinc plays a critical role in hormone production, including the regulation of menstrual cycles and ovulation. It also has immune-boosting properties and can help to clear skin conditions that are often hormonal in nature, such as acne.
  • B Vitamins
    B vitamins, particularly B6, B9 (folate), and B12, are essential for the metabolism of estrogen and can aid in the maintenance of regular menstrual cycles. They also support liver function, which is important for hormone detoxification.
  • Vitamin D
    Often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” vitamin D is crucial for immune function and may play a role in preventing certain menstrual disorders. It also supports bone health, which is important for women at risk of osteoporosis.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids
    Omega-3s, found in fish oil supplements, are anti-inflammatory and can help reduce menstrual pain. They are also beneficial for mood stabilization and may reduce the severity of PMS symptoms.
  • Probiotics
    Probiotics support gut health, which is essential for the proper elimination of hormones and toxins from the body. A healthy gut microbiome can also influence estrogen metabolism and reduce inflammation.
  • Vitex (Chasteberry)
    Vitex is an herb that can help to normalize the menstrual cycle and is particularly useful for conditions like PCOS and PMS. It acts on the pituitary gland to regulate the production of luteinizing hormone, promoting ovulation and hormonal balance.
  • Inositol
    Often used in the management of PCOS, inositol is a type of sugar that can help to improve insulin sensitivity and ovulatory function. It has been shown to reduce testosterone levels and improve fertility in women with PCOS.
  • N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
    NAC is an antioxidant that can improve insulin sensitivity and has been used as an adjunct treatment for women with PCOS. It also has mucolytic properties, which can help to reduce the viscosity of cervical mucus, potentially improving fertility.
It’s important for readers to consult with healthcare professionals before making changes to their supplement regimen, especially if they have chronic health conditions, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

10 Products Lara Briden Recommends in The Period Repair Manual

As we delve further into the insights provided by Lara Briden in The Period Repair Manual, we find that beyond lifestyle habits and supplements, there are specific products that can also play a significant role in supporting menstrual health and hormonal balance. Briden’s recommendations are based on scientific evidence and practical application, aimed at enhancing the well-being of those following her guidance. The products listed below are chosen for their potential to assist in achieving the health goals outlined in the book, with a focus on natural and holistic approaches to menstrual and hormonal issues.
  • Organic Cotton Tampons and Pads (view products)
    These products are recommended due to the absence of chemicals and synthetic materials found in conventional menstrual products. Organic cotton is less likely to cause irritation and is considered safer for long-term use as it reduces exposure to pesticides and dioxins, which can have estrogenic effects on the body.
  • Period Underwear (view products)
    Briden suggests period underwear as a sustainable and comfortable alternative to traditional menstrual products. They are made with absorbent materials that can help to prevent leaks, and because they are reusable, they offer an environmentally friendly option that aligns with the natural approach advocated in the book.
  • Natural Progesterone Cream (view products)
    This product is often recommended for its potential to balance estrogen dominance and support the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Natural progesterone cream, derived from wild yam, can be used to complement the body’s own progesterone, especially in cases of PMS or perimenopause.
  • Non-Toxic Skincare and Cosmetics (view products)
    Briden endorses skincare and cosmetic products that are free from endocrine-disrupting chemicals. These products are important as they reduce the body’s toxic load, which can have a positive impact on hormonal health and reduce the risk of hormone-related issues.
  • Glass or Stainless Steel Water Bottles (view products)
    To avoid exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) and other plasticizers, Briden recommends using water bottles made from glass or stainless steel. These materials do not leach chemicals into the water, supporting overall hormonal health by reducing endocrine disruptors.
  • Cast Iron or Stainless Steel Cookware (view products)
    Non-toxic cookware is recommended to avoid the potential hormone-disrupting effects of non-stick coatings. Cast iron and stainless steel are durable, non-toxic alternatives that do not release harmful substances into food during cooking.
  • Natural Fiber Clothing
    Clothing made from natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, and wool is recommended for its breathability and lack of synthetic chemicals. These materials can help reduce skin irritation and decrease exposure to potential hormone disruptors found in synthetic fabrics.
  • Blue Light Blocking Glasses
    To support healthy sleep patterns and circadian rhythms, Briden suggests using blue light blocking glasses in the evening. These glasses can help reduce exposure to blue light from screens, which can interfere with melatonin production and disrupt sleep.
  • Non-Toxic Household Cleaners (view products)
    Briden advocates for the use of household cleaning products that are free from harsh chemicals. These products can help maintain a healthier living environment by reducing exposure to substances that can negatively affect hormonal health.
  • Phytoestrogen-Rich Skin Creams (view products)
    For those experiencing symptoms of low estrogen, such as during menopause, Briden may recommend skin creams containing phytoestrogens. These plant-based compounds can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body and may provide symptomatic relief.

The Period Repair Manual Food List: 6 Most Important Foods

In The Period Repair Manual, Lara Briden emphasizes the importance of diet in supporting menstrual health and hormonal balance. The following list outlines specific foods that are recommended within the book, highlighting their significance and the benefits they offer in alignment with the health goals of readers.
  1. Leafy Green Vegetables
    High in iron and B vitamins, leafy greens like spinach and kale are important for women who may experience heavy menstrual bleeding. These nutrients are essential for replenishing blood loss and supporting the liver in hormone detoxification.
  2. Cruciferous Vegetables
    Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are rich in compounds called indole-3-carbinol, which can help in the detoxification of estrogen and may reduce the risk of estrogen dominance-related conditions like fibroids and endometriosis.
  3. Lean Protein
    Sources such as chicken, fish, and legumes provide the amino acids necessary for hormone production. Adequate protein intake is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and stabilizing blood sugar levels, which can help in managing conditions like PCOS.
  4. Healthy Fats
    Avocado, nuts, seeds, and oily fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids and other healthy fats that are vital for hormone synthesis. They also play a role in reducing inflammation and can support mood and cognitive function.
  5. Complex Carbohydrates
    Whole grains, sweet potatoes, and other complex carbs are important for sustained energy and blood sugar balance. They provide fiber, which is beneficial for gut health and the regulation of estrogen through the microbiome.
  6. Fermented Foods
    Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi contain probiotics that support gut health. A healthy gut microbiome is linked to better estrogen metabolism and can reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for overall hormonal health.

Is The Period Repair Manual Scientific?

Many readers approach The Period Repair Manual with a blend of hope and skepticism, wondering if Lara Briden’s advice is grounded in science. Briden, a naturopathic doctor, bases her recommendations on both clinical experience and scientific research, aiming to bridge the gap between natural health and evidence-based medicine. Critics sometimes question the scientific validity of naturopathic approaches, but Briden’s fans often report positive changes when applying her methods. It’s a dance between traditional wisdom and modern science, and for many, The Period Repair Manual has led them to a more harmonious relationship with their bodies.

Can Diet Really Regulate My Period?

The connection between diet and menstrual health is a hot topic that Lara Briden tackles with gusto in The Period Repair Manual. Readers are sometimes surprised to learn that what they eat can have a profound impact on their hormonal balance. Briden’s nutritional guidance is not just about alleviating symptoms but about empowering women to understand and nourish their bodies. While the idea of food as medicine is ancient, Briden’s application to menstrual health is a refreshing perspective that has changed many lives.

Is Lara Briden Against Hormonal Birth Control?

Lara Briden’s stance on hormonal birth control is often misunderstood. In The Period Repair Manual, Briden presents a nuanced view, acknowledging both the benefits and potential drawbacks of these medications. She encourages informed choice and provides strategies for those who choose to use or discontinue hormonal birth control. Briden’s goal is not to demonize but to educate, ensuring that women have the knowledge to make decisions that align with their health goals and values.

Are Supplements Necessary for Menstrual Health?

Supplements are a common point of confusion among readers of The Period Repair Manual. Lara Briden recommends specific supplements as part of a holistic approach to menstrual health, but she also emphasizes the importance of diet and lifestyle changes. Some readers wonder if they can skip the supplements altogether, while others worry about over-reliance on them. Briden’s approach is individualized, suggesting that supplements can be a powerful tool when used judiciously and in conjunction with other healthy habits.

How Quickly Will I See Results?

Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to the natural approaches outlined in The Period Repair Manual. Readers often seek immediate relief from menstrual discomfort and hormonal imbalance, but Lara Briden encourages a long-term perspective. Healing and balance take time, and Briden’s protocols are designed for gradual, sustainable change. The journey to better menstrual health is unique for each individual, and while some may notice improvements quickly, others may need to stay the course longer to see the benefits of Briden’s wisdom.

Books Similar to The Period Repair Manual

WomanCode by Alisa Vitti

WomanCode delves into the world of hormonal health, focusing on the endocrine system and how it affects every aspect of a woman’s life. Alisa Vitti, a functional nutritionist and women’s hormone expert, offers a comprehensive wellness program that has similarities to Lara Briden’s approach in terms of using diet and lifestyle changes to improve hormonal function. Unlike The Period Repair Manual, which is more focused on menstrual health, WomanCode covers a broader range of topics including fertility, energy, and libido. Vitti’s book also incorporates her proprietary “Cycle Syncing Method,” a system designed to optimize women’s health by tailoring diet, exercise, and time management to the phases of the menstrual cycle.

Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler

Taking Charge of Your Fertility is a seminal work by Toni Weschler that educates women on natural fertility management through the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM). While The Period Repair Manual provides a guide to natural treatments for menstrual problems, Taking Charge of Your Fertility focuses more on reproductive health and the use of FAM for birth control or conception. Both books empower women with knowledge about their bodies, but Weschler’s book is particularly detailed on the subject of charting menstrual cycles and understanding fertility signs, which can be beneficial for those trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy naturally.

The Hormone Cure by Sara Gottfried

The Hormone Cure, written by Harvard-educated physician Sara Gottfried, targets women who are struggling with hormonal imbalances. Gottfried’s book shares a common goal with The Period Repair Manual: to help women rebalance their hormones without relying solely on conventional medicine. The Hormone Cure offers a three-step program that includes natural therapies, supplements, and lifestyle changes. While both books address hormonal issues, Gottfried’s work is broader, covering topics like stress management and its impact on hormones, and it is particularly aimed at women in their mid-thirties and beyond.

Balance Your Hormones, Balance Your Life by Claudia Welch

Dr. Claudia Welch’s Balance Your Hormones, Balance Your Life brings an Eastern medicine perspective to hormonal health, combining Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine principles with Western science. Similar to The Period Repair Manual, Welch’s book provides dietary and lifestyle recommendations to address hormonal imbalances. However, it differs in its holistic approach that includes spiritual and emotional aspects of health. Welch also discusses the importance of understanding the interplay between hormones and stress, offering insights into how to achieve hormonal balance through mindfulness and self-care practices.

The Fifth Vital Sign by Lisa Hendrickson-Jack

The Fifth Vital Sign by Lisa Hendrickson-Jack presents the menstrual cycle as a vital sign, just as important as heart rate or blood pressure. This book aligns with Lara Briden’s The Period Repair Manual in its advocacy for menstrual cycle awareness as a tool for gauging overall health. Hendrickson-Jack emphasizes the importance of education about the menstrual cycle and provides evidence-based approaches to managing menstrual health. While The Period Repair Manual focuses more on treatment of menstrual issues, The Fifth Vital Sign offers a broader educational perspective, aiming to equip readers with the knowledge to use their menstrual cycle as a marker of their health status.

About this book summary

This summary was prepared by our team at MasterHealth to the best of our knowledge. Please reach out to our team for any corrections to the content should you feel any of the information is not accurate.

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