Focus On What Your Gut Is Feeling
As they say, your gut feeling is never wrong! Keeping a check on how your gut is feeling might help you point out hormonal imbalances. Signs like leaky gut, indigestion, and other stomach-related issues can be signs of reduced probiotic bacteria. Eating healthy and consulting your doctor for a better diet plan is the way to go.
Questions Talk To A Doctor Today
If youre concerned about your estrogen levels or just want to talk to an expert about your symptoms, its time to see a doctor.
Dade City and Wesley Chapel patients can with Dr. Ayazo or call . No matter your health concerns, Dr. Ayazo is here to answer your questions and work with you on a personalized plan to help you start feeling better.
Estrogen Gut Health And Diet
Your gut is home to a huge population of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, known as your gut microbiome.
The good microbes in your gut are critical for digestion and immune health. Without a diverse microbiome, your body cant absorb and use phytoestrogens.
Some research shows a link between gut microbiota diversity and estrogen levels in women who have been through menopause.
At ZOE, our scientists recently found that, following menopause, you are more likely to experience unhealthy blood sugar and blood fat spikes after eating. These spikes are important health markers that are often overlooked in people who seem otherwise healthy.
With the ZOE at-home test, you find out which microbes you currently have in your gut, including how many good and bad ones, and what the best foods for your body are at your current life stage.
You can take our free quiz to find out more.
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What Are The Common Conditions And Disorders Associated With Estrogen
Estrogen plays a role in most conditions that fall under the umbrella of womens health. Some of the most common include:
Research is ongoing about estrogen’s role in conditions affecting other body systems. For instance, estrogen has been linked to some endocrine disorders and gastrointestinal diseases.
Symptoms Of Low Estrogen
Estrogen plays a critical role in your reproductive health, but its also important for bone health and the production of mood-stabilizing hormones.
The most common reason for low estrogen is perimenopause, the natural transition to menopause.
This usually occurs in women in their 40s, though it can vary. During this time, your body may have sudden surges and production, which can cause symptoms including:
-
changes in metabolism
If you notice symptoms, consult a doctor before making changes to your diet and lifestyle.
They may recommend hormone replacement therapy . Studies have found that HRT is safe for many but not all women.
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Exercise On A Regular Basis
Adequate exercise is one of the best health investments you can put in the bank of you. Exercise releases feel-good hormones such as dopamine. Exercise also stimulates the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin, a chemical which is often targeted by antidepressants in the form of SSRIs .
When it comes to hormonal balance, exercise is particularly important during the years leading up to menopause as estrogen begins to decline. Estrogen decline may mean weaker bones which is why weight-bearing exercises are particularly important later in life.
See also:Signs of High Estrogen in Women
The Role Of Estrogen In A Womans Health
Estrogen is one of the sex hormones made in the body from cholesterol, which is one reasons its not a good idea to eat a very low-fat diet if youre concerned about low estrogen. Its responsible for the development of breasts and reproductive function during puberty . Estrogens roles include :
- Maintaining vaginal blood flow and lubrication
- Causing the regrowth of the wombs interior wall sloughed off during menstruation
- Keeping the vaginal lining elastic
- Helping preserve bone strength
- Regulating cholesterol and triglyceride metabolism, which protects women from heart disease
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What Medications Treat Low Estrogen
Hormone replacement therapy is a common treatment for low estrogen, especially during menopause and postmenopause. With HT, you take synthetic forms of estrogen and/or the hormone progesterone to boost your levels. There are two types of HT, estrogen therapy and estrogen progesterone/progestin hormone therapy . Providers prescribe the lowest doses possible to treat your symptoms while preventing side effects.
The only FDA-approved reasons for body-wide hormone replacement therapy are low bone mineral density and hot flash treatment, typically in the form of pills or patches. Vaginal estrogen in the form of rings, creams, and vaginal inserts are formulated to treat vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. Sometimes “body wide” estrogen can affect the vaginal tissue. Sometimes it doesnt. Vice versa, vaginal estrogen is not approved for the treatment of hot flashes.
Its not unusual to need vaginal estrogen in addition to body-wide estrogen if youre experiencing hot flashes and painful sex.
Estrogen therapy
Youll take estrogen supplements only, with no progesterone. Your provider will only prescribe this therapy if you no longer have a uterus .
Estrogen progesterone/progestin hormone therapy
HRT isnt without risks. Research has shown that long-term use of combination therapy may increase your risk of breast cancer, blood clots, heart attacks and stroke.
Treatment Options For Low Estrogen
If a persons low estrogen levels are the result of a typical physiological process, such as menopause, and a person has few symptoms, doctors may recommend taking no action.
However, if the symptoms are significant, a person may need medical care. The right treatment depends on the symptoms, the root cause, and a persons treatment goals.
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Best Foods That Help In Increasing Estrogen Levels
Phytoestrogens, also referred to as dietary estrogen, are naturally occurring plant compounds with a similar chemical structure to that of estrogen. They mimic estrogens hormonal action and help your body cope with an estrogen deficiency. There are several phytoestrogen- and estrogen-rich foods that can help maintain the necessary levels of this naturally-occurring hormone in your body. Here are some of the most effective ones.
Why Are Athletes At Risk For Low Levels Of Estrogen
Women with low body fat often do not produce sufficient amounts of sex hormones. This can be a problem for women such as athletes, models, and gymnasts. It can also be a problem for women with eating disorders. These women can experience a cessation of menstruation, known as amenorrhea. They may also develop osteoporosis — thin bones — and fractures as well as other conditions more common in older women after menopause.
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Here Is A List Of The Best Supplements To Help Increase Estrogen In Women
Vitamin B, Vitamin D, Boron
- All three of these vitamins/minerals play an important role in the bodys production of estrogen
- If any of them are low, it can lead to a decrease in the bodys regular production of estrogen
DHEA
- A hormone that is produced by the bodys adrenal glands. It is a precursor to estrogen and testosterone
- In regard to testosterone production, DHEA has only been found to work in older men. This may also be true of women who are looking to use DHEA to boost estrogen
Black Cohosh
- An herb traditionally used by Native Americans it has traditionally been used to treat a variety of feminine conditions including menopause
- Evidence suggests that black cohosh could increase estrogen when it is low
Chasteberry, Red Clover, and Dong Quai
- Chasteberry, Red Clover, and Dong Quai are herbs that are often used as traditional treatments for conditions such as menopause and PMS
- Researchers have found that all three herbs show effects similar to estrogen in the body
Ashwagandha
- A small shrub that grows in India, it is commonly used to help with stress or sometimes used as an adaptogen
- It has been shown in one study on older men to increase testosterone levels up to 22% and may have a similar effect on women and estrogen
What Role Does Estrogen Play In Reproductive Health For Women Or Dfab
Estrogen, like all hormones, is a chemical messenger. It tells your body when to start and stop processes affecting your sexual and reproductive health. These processes cause important changes in your body.
Puberty
Estrogen levels rise during puberty. The increase leads to secondary sex characteristics like breasts and changes in overall body composition .
Menstrual cycle
Along with hormones made in your brain and progesterone, estrogen plays an important part in your menstrual cycle. These hormones coexist in a delicate balance to keep your periods regular. Estrogen plays a role in ovulation and thickens the lining of your uterus to prepare it for pregnancy.
Pregnancy & Fertility
Estrogen peaks in the days leading up to ovulation. This is your most fertile period. At the same time, estrogen thins your cervical mucus, a fluid sperm has to swim through to reach and fertilize an egg. These estrogen-induced changes make it easier for you to become pregnant if you have intercourse.
Regardless of where you are in your menstrual cycle, the presence of estrogen makes it more comfortable to have intercourse. It keeps your vaginal walls thick, elastic and lubricated, reducing pain associated with penetrative sex.
Menopause
The primary estrogen in your body changes from estradiol to estrone during menopause.
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Estrogen And Its Effects On The Body
Estrogen is an important hormone for male and female health and sexual development.
Estrogen regulates cholesterol levels, maintains bone health, and affects mood. In females, this hormone also influences puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause.
There arethree main types of estrogen:
- Estradiol: This is the most potent form of estrogen, and its concentration is highest in females of childbearing age. Doctors use this form of estrogen as a marker for ovary health.
- Estrone: This is the primary type of estrogen in males. It is also the primary form of estrogen in females after menopause. The ovaries, placenta, testicles, and fat tissue produce estrone from androstenedione or androgens.
- Estriol: The placenta produces this type of estrogen, which reaches peak levels during pregnancy. The amount of estriol increases as the fetus grows.
When estrogen levels rise or fall, this can affect many areas of the body, including the reproductive system, skin, hair, bones, muscles, brain, and breast tissue. Fluctuations can also have these effects in males, as everyone has some breast tissue.
There are several reasons why estrogen levels can become high. They may rise as a result of:
- an overproduction of estrogen
- changes in how the body breaks estrogen down
- changes in how the body excretes estrogen
Many factors may contribute to estrogen dominance, including:
- hypocalcemia, which is low calcium
Why Do Women Need Progesterone
Progesterone is secreted by the ovaries after you have ovulated. It helps prepare the body for a possible pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining for the 14 days post ovulation, allowing the implantation of the embryo to occur. Making progesterone one of the most significant hormones in healthy conception.
These elevated progesterone levels also play a significant part in keeping your menstrual cycle regular and healthy. Research has shown that progesterone plays a big role in protecting you from developing breast and other uterine cancers as elevated estrogen levels in your body can promote the growth of cancer cells.
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How Doctors Treat Hormonal Imbalances
There isnt one best medication for low estrogen. What works for you will depend on a few different factorsincluding the underlying cause of your hormonal imbalances, if other hormones are affected, and your specific personal and family medical history. Your doctor may ask you to come back a few times to test your blood and fine-tune your treatment.
Dr. Ayazo explains that your physician will look at all of these different factors to find a treatment that works best for you. Some possible options include:
How Can I Increase My Estrogen Naturally
Foods and supplements that contain ingredients similar to estrogen may help boost your levels. Speak to your provider before starting any regimen to increase your estrogen.
Foods that contain phytoestrogens
Phytoestrogens are plant-based estrogens. Some studies suggest that eating foods that contain phytoestrogens helps with menopause symptoms like hot flashes. Some phytoestrogens may help promote heart health, bone health and skin elasticity. More research is needed to know for sure.
Foods that contain phytoestrogens include:
Supplements that contain phytoestrogens
The FDA doesnt regulate the safety and effectiveness of supplements, so its important to check with your provider before taking supplements. Some supplements contain phytoestrogens similar to the ones found in foods and may help manage symptoms associated with low estrogen:
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Why Do You Need Oestrogen
Oestrogen is the primary hormone for sexual and reproductive growth in women. Oestrogen works with other hormones to help during puberty and maintain fertility till menopause. This hormone is not only necessary for sexual reproductive growth but also performs other vital functions. It promotes bone density, balances mood, controls cholesterol, and encourages a healthy heart.
How To Increase Oestrogen Naturally
The oestrogen hormone plays a significant role in the female body. However, with age, the oestrogen levels start lowering. Low oestrogen may lead to signs of early menopause in women. Your doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy to manage your low oestrogen levels.
Nonetheless, as stated, there are many natural ways you can adopt how to maintain oestrogen levels in your body. A few of them are –
- Include soybean, tofu, and miso in your diet.
- Include seeds such as flax seeds, sesame seeds as they are a dietary source of phytoestrogens.
- Vitamin B plays a significant role in forming and stimulating oestrogen in the body. Include yoghurt, low-fat milk, cheese, leafy green vegetables, pork, and legumes in your diet.
- Vitamin D is another natural source of increasing oestrogen.
- Boron is a trace mineral. It is essential for the metabolism of the sex hormones testosterone and oestrogen.
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The Role Of Estrogen In Your Body
In its role as the major sex hormone in your body, estrogen does some pretty important things that aren’t related to fertility. As a hormone, estrogen acts on the parts of your body that have estrogen-specific hormone receptors. Estrogen is involved with numerous important functions throughout your body.
Eight Oestrogen Rich Foods For Menopause
Phytoestrogens are plant-based agents that naturally imitate oestrogen in the body. Due to their unique bioactivity, these compounds have received increasing attention for their beneficial health effects.Oestrogen falls sharply in menopause, causing a host of symptoms, such as hot flushes, mood swings, and fatigue. Phytoestrogens are thought to have a balancing effect on hormones, combating low oestrogen, and supporting your health during this time.We can categorise phytoestrogens into three groups: isoflavones, coumestans, and lignans. Consuming more foods with oestrogenic properties may be a helpful addition or an alternative to hormone replacement therapy .
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What Is The Function Of Estrogen In Women
Estrogen is responsible for a number of distinguishing physical and emotional factors that differentiate males from females. When compared to males, females tend to have shorter and smaller bones, a smaller voice box , higher fat distribution around the hips and thighs, and slight differences in cognition and emotional regulation.
Estrogen carries out a number of essential functions. Some of the primary functions of estrogen in women include:
- Regulate the development of secondary sexual characteristics in women
- Stimulate the thickening of the endometrium during the menstrual cycle, encourages vaginal lubrication, and helps to keep the vaginal wall thick during pregnancy.
- Aid bone formation and is involved in the maintenance of strong healthy bones.
- Promote the production of good cholesterol, known as high-density lipoprotein or HDL cholesterol
- Maintain the thickness and quality of the skin via collagen production.
- Stimulate and maintain feel good endorphins released by the brain.
- Controlling hair growth and prevents hair thinning and loss.
If you are experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, youre thinking about taking a test, or you simply want to find out more, contact us directly via live chat. We will tell you everything you need to know about our testing service, as well as our on-going clinical support.
Acupuncture For Low Estrogen Levels
Acupuncture is another therapy that might be of use for low estrogen levels.
A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis looked at acupuncture for effectiveness at treating premature ovarian failure , which is commonly treated with hormone replacement therapy . The review concluded that :
- Standard acupuncture was as effective as HRT at improving menopausal symptoms.
- Acupuncture and acupoint embedding were the best at improving estrogen levels.
Acupuncture can also help manage stress and ease the sleep difficulties that plague so many menopausal women .
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Estrogen / Progesterone Balance
Estrogen levels fluctuate throughout each menstrual cycle during a womans fertile years. They peak and fall dramatically just before ovulation and have a steadier increase in the second half of the menstrual cycle .
Meanwhile progesterone, an opposing hormone, stays lower than estrogen during the first half of the menstrual cycle , but is higher than estrogen during the luteal phase. Progesterones role is to get the uterus ready to accept and maintain a fertilized egg. If pregnancy doesnt happen, the womb lining sheds and progesterone levels fall.
Are Phytoestrogens Dangerous
The health benefits of consuming phytoestrogen-rich foods likely outweigh the potential risks, so these foods can be consumed safely in moderation.
However, limited research suggests that a high intake of phytoestrogens may be associated with some risks and complications. These findings are mixed and inconclusive, so more research in humans is necessary.
Thus, it is advisable to be skeptical of any strong conclusions about the dangers of phytoestrogens.
People have raised the following potential concerns about phytoestrogens:
- Infertility: While some research states that phytoestrogens may harm reproductive health, the bulk of it has been conducted on animal models, and strong human studies are lacking. One large study of women trying to become pregnant found no strong links between phytoestrogen intake and pregnancy rates (
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