What is Estrogen Imbalance?

By Dr. Shreya Batra, ND

Are you metabolizing your estrogen correctly?

“Estrogen dominance” is a very common term used to describe a state of increased estrogen. There are several ways that this may occur in the body:

1. Decreased estrogen metabolism/breakdown

2. High production of estrogen

3. Reduced progesterone (causing a relative estrogen increase in the body)

4. Increased exposure to estrogen-like chemicals from environmental factors (foods, plastics, body products…etc)

Symptoms of increased estrogen in the body includes:

1. Bloating

2. Breast tenderness and/or swelling

3. Anxiety

4. Increased blood clotting

5. Mood swings

6. Slowed metabolism

7. Increased weight/resistant or stubborn weight

8. PMS headaches

9. Heavy and/or painful periods

It is important for us to assess and identify estrogen excess as untreated estrogen imbalance may result in complications. The following are examples of conditions that may be due to long-term untreated estrogen imbalance:

1. Endometriosis

2. Fibroids

3. Cysts in the breasts and/or ovaries

4. Heavy and/or painful periods

5. PCOS

6. …etc

If you are experiencing symptoms such as the ones listed above, let’s assess your estrogen levels. These symptoms and estrogen imbalance may arise due to a variety of reasons such as: liver congestion, lack of exercise, use of oral contraceptives, poor diet, and even environmental estrogen disruptors (found in plastics, and even hygiene products).

While supporting proper estrogen metabolism, it is also important to support progesterone production and ensure that there is a healthy ratio between the two hormones.

Start with these 3 simple tips on how to support your estrogen levels:

1. Exercise: ensure that you are exercising (get your heart rate up!) for at least 30-40 minutes each day. Exercise supports healthy metabolism, elimination and production of hormones. Other benefits – improves mood, energy, and overall health.

2. Get more fiber into your diet. Fiber will allow for healthy bowel movements (which is one of the best ways to support estrogen clearance and balance). Add extra fiber into your diet by including a daily dose of ground flax seeds, green leafy vegetables, chia seeds, psyllium and beans/legumes.

3. Support your liver – appropriate liver function is crucial for healthy hormone metabolism. Simple things you can do to support your liver include, limit drinking/alcohol intake, stop smoking, start your day with some lemon water, indulge in green leafy veggies and introduce liver supporting herbs and vitamins.

If you think you are experiencing hormone imbalance, book a 15 minute complimentary meet-and-greet and let’s get started on a treatment plan ideal for YOU!

Disclaimer

Please note that content on this website is intended for informational purposes only, and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, nor is it meant to diagnose or treat a health problem, symptom or disease. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this website. Information provided on this website DOES NOT create a doctor-patient relationship between you and any doctor affiliated with our website.