Estrogen dominance occurs when you have excess estrogen with very little progesterone to balance its effects in the body.
For many women, estrogen levels increase during perimenopausal years, which is 10-15 years prior to the onset of menopause.
Signs of Estrogen Dominance
Estrogen is the most common type of hormonal imbalance characterized by the symptoms below.
1. Abnormal menstrual periods
2. PMS symptoms: bloating, pain, breast tenderness
3. Decreased libido
4. Fatigue
5. Poor focus
6. Thyroid imbalance
7. Difficulty sleeping
8. Weight gain near the hip and waist
9. Mood swings; depression or anxiety
10.Hair loss
Estrogen dominance is not only reserved for women.
Men too can have estrogen dominance due to excess body fat, stress, poor diet, and environmental factors.
This presents as enlarged breast, difficulty focusing, and weight gain.
How to Balance Estrogen in the Body
Hormones are complicated; we have an ebb and flow of hormones in our bodies that can affect us day to day.
Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone work synergistically in the body to keep things running smoothly. They require a delicate balance that can easily be disturbed by lifestyle factors.
Here are seven things to take into account to balance hormones.
1. Avoid Xenoestrogens
Xenoestrogens are compounds that mimic estrogen in the body and can disrupt our hormone system.
They are very commonly found in many household and beauty products. Whenever possible, choose organic beauty products made with safe, natural ingredients.
It’s important to remember that common drug store items contain such compounds. This also includes cleaning products and laundry products, especially fabric softeners and dryer sheets.
There are many alternatives including essential oil based products.
2. Change What You Eat
Eating nutrient dense foods is helpful to the body’s ability to detox. Leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, healthy fats, and herbs such as cilantro, turmeric, and milk thistle are great options.
3. Take Herbal Supplements
Herbs can be a simple way to help support healthy hormone balance.
It’s important to note though that there are no one size fits all supplements. Consult our Nutritionist for the best options for you.
4. Avoid Unsafe Plastic
Plastic is everywhere! Be mindful of plastics that contain xenoestrogen compounds.
Always opt for BPA free plastics. Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a xenoestrogen that can be very harmful over time.
Choose glass or stainless steel whenever possible. When cooking, choose cast iron, stainless steel, or copper cookware to protect your food.
5. Drink Filtered Water
Tap water is not safe.
In 2009, the Environmental Working Group published a three year study that found 316 chemicals, including xenoestrogens, in tap water.
Bottled water is not always the best option, as researchers found multiple endocrine disrupting chemicals in a single bottle of water.
Best option is to invest in a high quality water filter that removes harmful contaminants found in tap water without compromising mineral content.
6. Exercise
Studies have shown regular exercise lowers your estrogen levels in the body.
The best form of low impact movement is Alkaline Method Yoga/Pilates/Barre classes offered daily. You’ll look better, feel better, and move better.
Click here for our schedule.
7. Relaxation
Too much stress can wreak havoc on your health.
When your body is under stress it creates an imbalance of hormones, especially cortisol and adrenaline. This imbalance can lead to disruption of all hormones in the body, creating a list of symptoms such as leaky gut, poor energy, poor focus, and low libido.
We are more susceptible to hormonal disturbances than ever before due to environmental factors.
But remember, you can avoid or reverse your imbalances by adapting an Alkaline Method lifestyle to safeguard yourself against disease and promote longevity and health.
Want to get clear guidance? We’ve got a multitude of options for you. Click here to view our programs.
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