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Estrogen Dominance – The Balancing Game

It’s no news that hormonal imbalances like estrogen dominance affect the overall well-being, including the mental health of individuals. Estrogen dominance is one of the most common hormonal imbalances that occurs in women. It plays a massive role in most women-dominant hormonal conditions like infertility, obesity, PCOS, and endometriosis, as well as mental health problems like mood swings, depression, and anxiety. The good news is that specific lifestyle changes can help balance it out naturally.

 

In this article, we will discuss estrogen dominance and ways to improve it to promote mental health and optimal well-being.

What Exactly Is Estrogen Dominance?

Estrogen dominance, otherwise referred to as unopposed estrogen, is a hormonal imbalance in the body with too much estrogen and insufficient progesterone to balance it out. It can develop due to too much estrogen production, decreased estrogen metabolism or excretion, or poor estrogen/ progesterone ratio due to an existing medical condition or on its own. 

Causes of Estrogen Dominance

  1. Age: Hormonal changes during perimenopause can lead to a decrease in progesterone, creating an imbalance with estrogen.
  2. Obesity: Excess body fat can produce more estrogen, exacerbating the condition.
  3. Certain medications: Certain medications, such as hormonal contraceptives, can increase estrogen levels.
  4. Pre-existing medical conditions: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diabetes, and thyroid disorders can affect hormone levels.
  5. Environmental Factors: Exposure to xenoestrogens found in plastics, pesticides, and other chemicals can mimic estrogen in the body​

Signs And Symptoms of Estrogen Dominance

Estrogen dominance manifests through a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. 

 

Common physical signs include:

  • Weight Gain/Obesity: Particularly around the hips, waist, and thighs.
  • Menstrual Problems: Irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or worsening of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) may indicate too much estrogen.
  • Fibrocystic Breasts: Non-cancerous lumps found in the breasts.
  • Fibroids
  • Persistent fatigue
  • Breast Tenderness
  • Frequent Headaches/migraines
  • Decreased sex drive or libido

 

High estrogen levels can lead to mental health issues like

  • Mood Swings/Irritability
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

HOW TO MANAGE/PREVENT ESTROGEN DOMINANCE

Nutrition

Incorporate foods rich in magnesium and B vitamins, such as dark leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables. Avoid processed soy products and opt for natural protein sources like eggs, nuts, and lean meats. Several scientific studies have proven that a vegetarian and high-fiber diet helps in the excretion of estrogen.


Maintain a Healthy Weight 

Reducing body fat through diet and exercise can lower estrogen levels since fatty tissue produces estrogen​. 

 

Support your liver

The liver helps break down estrogen. Supporting your liver includes eating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage, limiting sugar, and using liver tonics that help protect and improve its functioning.

 

Reduce Stress

High stress levels can increase cortisol, which depletes progesterone and elevates estrogen levels. Practices such as mindfulness, yoga, meditation, and adequate rest can help manage stress effectively.​ 

 

Limit Caffeine 

Reducing caffeine intake can improve hormonal balance and support overall health​ 



Reduce Alcohol consumption

 

If you’ve noticed any or multiple signs of estrogen dominance mentioned above and are worried that you may have it, book an appointment with Aldora Injury and Wellness today. Under the guidance and supervision of our esteemed nurse practitioner specialized in hormonal imbalances, we will assess your condition and determine the best course of action with an integrative approach. 

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