Estrogen Dominance 101
Estrogen is one of the two primary reproductive hormones in women, and it plays a crucial role in developing the female body and reproductive functions.
However, estrogen is not exclusive to women, men have it too, but in smaller quantities.
You can think of estrogen as a "builder" hormone.
It's responsible for the development of the breasts, pubic, and underarm hair and initiates the menstrual cycles, beginning at puberty and continuing throughout the reproductive years.
Estrogen builds up the lining of the uterus in preparation for pregnancy, but estrogen’s role isn’t limited to reproduction.
It also helps to regulate cholesterol, safeguard bone health, and influence various body tissues, including the brain (affecting mood and cognition), the heart, and skin.
It also assists in muscle and bone development, slows down aging, boosts libido, balances mood, and regulates your sleep cycle.
Progesterone is the other major reproductive hormone in women, and it's also known as the pregnancy hormone.
Progesterone maintains the lining of the uterus, and it keeps it intact throughout pregnancy.
Progesterone is also a calming hormone and helps to keep us feeling chilled.
Estrogen and progesterone work together to maintain overall health, and when these hormones are in balance, you can feel great.
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What is estrogen dominance?
Estrogen dominance occurs when the effects of estrogen overpower the effects of progesterone.
This can occur for several reasons, including:
Excess production of estrogen
Inadequate estrogen detoxification
Low progesterone (e.g. in thyroid conditions or absent ovulation)
Exposure to xenoestrogens (estrogen-like chemicals in the environment)
While estrogen naturally takes the lead during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, it’s only meant to be elevated for a few days.
When estrogen is high for long stretches of time, it can have a domino effect, leading to a host of health problems.
How can you tell if you are experiencing estrogen dominance?
You can speak to your doctor about doing a blood estrogen level on day 3 of your cycle to confirm; however, estrogen dominance can occur with normal estrogen levels, for example, when progesterone is low.
If you’re experiencing two or more of the following symptoms, this may be a sign that you are experiencing estrogen dominance:
Chronic headaches or migraines
Water retention and bloating
Weight gain in your lower body
Fibroids
Endometriosis
Tender and painful breasts
Unexplained mood swings
Heavy flow during periods
Painful cramps before and during periods
If you think your symptoms may be related to a hormone imbalance, then the HORMONE IMBALANCE QUIZ can help you understand what your symptoms may mean and where to start with balancing your hormones naturally.
How to reduce estrogen dominance
One way to balance estrogen is by supporting estrogen detoxification.
Your body eliminates estrogen in three phases.
Phases 1 and 2 occur in the liver, and phase 3 occurs in the gut.
To overcome estrogen dominance and balance your hormones, supporting your liver health is key.
Your liver is responsible for filtering blood, removing toxins, and maintaining hormone balance. Estrogen is processed and packaged for elimination in the liver.
You can support your liver by avoiding foods high in processed fats, sugar, and salt. These foods can place additional burden on the liver and slow down liver detoxification pathways.
Aim to include more fresh, whole, and fiber-rich foods in your daily diet. These will not only help to support liver function but will also improve your gut health (another important factor for healthy estrogen metabolism).
Photo by Anna Guerrero
Foods rich in vitamin C, sulfur, and B vitamins are also beneficial for liver health.
Adding these foods to your daily diet will help optimize your liver function and naturally support estrogen detoxification.
In addition to eating more liver-loving foods, consider the toxins you’re exposed to in your environment and the products you use on your body.
Opt for clean, organic products made from natural ingredients whenever possible.
Check out this post to learn about the top 5 chemicals that may be messing with your hormones.
Ready to say good-bye to PMS and problematic periods? Get started with the 28-Day Hormone Balance Reset Guide complete with recipes, supplements and lifestyle tips for each phase of your menstrual cycle.
Hey, I'm Dr Carmen…
I'm an integrative doctor, health coach, and medical cannabis clinician helping you fix your period problems naturally.
I am passionate about all things women's health and holistic healing, and I'm so glad that you're here.
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© Dr. Carmen James 2023
Dr. Carmen James is a licensed medical doctor in South Africa. The information shared on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any conditions. Please speak to your healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.