Balance and equilibrium are essential for overall good health, especially when it comes to your hormones. It is important that the hormones estrogen and progesterone are present in the body in the correct proportion to prevent symptoms. Unfortunately, this balance is disrupted in many women, and we speak of estrogen dominance when there is relatively more estrogen in the body and relatively less progesterone. In this blog, we discuss the symptoms, causes, and possible solutions for estrogen dominance.
The functions of estrogen and progesterone in the body
Estrogen is an essential hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle, bone health, and the development of the uterus, vagina, breasts, and other female characteristics. Estrogen is produced in the ovaries, adrenal glands, fatty tissue, and in the placenta during pregnancy.
Estrogen stimulates femininity, libido, and fertility, but also promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the production of the happiness hormone serotonin, and keeps the skin firm.
Progesterone is also produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands, and during the last 6 months of pregnancy, in the placenta. Progesterone has an important task concerning pregnancy; this hormone ensures that the cells of the uterine lining mature properly so that the fertilized egg can implant well. Additionally, progesterone calms and helps improve sleep quality.
When the balance between estrogen and progesterone is disrupted, estrogen dominance can occur. Estrogen dominance is defined as an excess of estrogen and/or a deficiency of its counterpart, progesterone.
Symptoms of estrogen dominance
How do you recognize estrogen dominance? We share some common symptoms:
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- PMS symptoms
- Fatigue
- Painful breasts
- Hormonal migraines
- Uterine polyps
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
Causes of estrogen dominance
- Diet: Diets rich in processed foods and low in fiber can contribute to hormonal imbalance. Additionally, deficiencies in vitamins and enzymes that help break down estrogens in the liver can promote estrogen dominance.
- Xenoestrogens: Exposure to xenoestrogens from plastics, pesticides, personal care products, and more can disrupt hormone balance.
- High body fat percentage: estrogens are also produced in fatty tissue.
- Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance, including that of estrogen and progesterone. This is because the body prioritizes the production of stress hormones over other important hormones.
Solutions for estrogen dominance
- Balanced diet: Opt for a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and fiber-rich foods, sufficient healthy fats and proteins to keep hormones balanced. Aim for at least 500 to 800 grams of vegetables per day, which promotes the breakdown of estrogens.
- Supplements: Consider supplements that support the body in regulating hormones. Think of zinc and vitamin B6, but also request personalized supplement advice from one of our therapists so we can provide tailored guidance!
- Stress management: Practice relaxation techniques such as mindful breathing, yoga, or meditation to reduce chronic stress response and restore hormone balance. Additionally, prioritize your sleep routine and quality sleep patterns.
- Healthy lifestyle: Quit smoking and also limit alcohol as much as possible. Alcohol increases estrogen levels. The liver is then busy breaking down alcohol instead of breaking down excess estrogen. Do you enjoy a nice glass of wine? Be aware that your estrogen levels will rise by 30% and this will last for approximately 24 hours.
