Estrogen – Friend or Foe?

Written By: Dr. Sue Aery - Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture | Issue: 2019/03 - March

Estrogen is a very important hormone in the human body, both male and female. In both sexes, hormones are naturally occurring chemical messengers with many different roles. 

In women, estrogens are the key component of sexual development, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, bone health, mood stabilization, brain and skin health, and so much more. 

In men, estrogens help to keep the body in balance, mood regulation, control of abdominal fat, healthy libido, urinary tract health and bone density. 

There is much research to support that we are exposed to many synthetic and exogenous forms of estrogens in our environment, all playing a detrimental role in our natural balance. High levels of estrogen in the bodies of men and women can drive the testosterone levels down, which can further offset the critical balance of hormones in the body. Many products have added estrogens, including lotions, shampoos, and many other beauty products, not to mention many foods and meats are also enhanced with forms of estrogens.

Estrogen comes in three forms: estradiol, estriol and estrone. Each has a specific regulation role in the body. The most prevalent form is estradiol and that is known to decrease in our bodies over time. Menopausal women have a decrease in estrogen and therefore a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia and bone loss. Low estrogen can also contribute to higher testosterone. Both high and low estrogen levels can cause increased abdominal fat in both sexes. In men who are overweight, a hormone called aromatase can convert testosterone to estrogen. Aromatase is a common component in fat and this can become a vicious cycle. This is why, in a surprising twist, injection and/or oral use of testosterone can often lead to estrogen dominance in men.

Remember that hormone balance is a very important function in the body and maintaining this is the key to a healthy, strong and well-functioning body. If we alter the ratios without proper testing and guidance we can set ourselves up for trouble sooner or later in life. There are many good tests to determine hormone levels and also many approaches to balancing hormones through healthy diet, exercise and lifestyle habits. 

One important food group is the cruciferous family. This includes broccoli, cabbage, kale and cauliflower, among others. These naturally block estrogen production. There is also a supplement called DIMM, which does the same inside the body. It is very important to keep the liver healthy and include a good dose of methyl donors in your supplement list. Most of your B vitamins will serve this purpose well. In any case, be sure to understand that the balance in the body is delicate and the more we do to promote good health through healthy habits, good awareness and natural sources of foods, fiber and whole food vitamins, the healthier we can and will be!