Hormonal Imbalances: Oestrogen Excess

“Oestrogen dominance”, or oestrogen excess, is a hormonal imbalance that affects many individuals, particularly women, causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms. It occurs when the level of oestrogen in the body surpasses the level of progesterone, creating an imbalance. This blog post will explore the concept of oestrogen dominance, its causes, common symptoms, and naturopathic approaches for managing and rebalancing oestrogen levels naturally.

Understanding Oestrogen Dominance

Oestrogen dominance is not solely an excess of oestrogen, but rather a relative imbalance between oestrogen and progesterone. Oestrogen is a crucial hormone responsible for various functions, including regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone health, and supporting brain function. However, an excessive amount of oestrogen or inadequate progesterone levels can disrupt the delicate hormonal equilibrium.

Causes of Oestrogen Dominance

• Hormonal Imbalance: Disruptions in hormone production and metabolism can contribute to oestrogen dominance. This can occur due to factors such as stress, unhealthy lifestyle choices, excessive exposure to environmental toxins, and certain medications.

• Xenoestrogens: These are synthetic compounds that mimic the effects of oestrogen in the body. Common sources of xenoestrogens include pesticides, plastics (like BPA), personal care products, and some food additives. Prolonged exposure to these substances can disrupt hormonal balance.

• Poor Liver Function: The liver plays a crucial role in metabolising and eliminating hormones from the body. If the liver is overburdened or not functioning optimally, it can lead to an accumulation of oestrogen and contribute to oestrogen dominance.

• Constipation: Having regular bowel movements helps to clear excess oestrogen and therefore constipation can prevent and impair the healthy elimination of oestrogen. 

Common Symptoms of Oestrogen Dominance

The symptoms of oestrogen dominance can vary from person to person, but some commonly experienced signs include:

• Irregular or heavy menstrual periods

• Mood swings, anxiety, and depression

• Breast tenderness and swelling

• Weight gain, especially around the hips and thighs

• Fatigue and low energy levels

• Insomnia and sleep disturbances

• Headaches and migraines

• Decreased libido

• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating

• Digestive issues

Naturopathic Approaches for Managing Oestrogen Dominance

Naturopathic medicine offers a holistic approach to managing oestrogen dominance by addressing the root causes and supporting the body's natural healing mechanisms. Some strategies that can help rebalance oestrogen levels include:

• Dietary Changes:

• Increase fibre intake: Consuming more fibre from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can aid in proper oestrogen elimination.

• Cruciferous vegetables: Include broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts in your diet, as they contain compounds that support oestrogen metabolism.

• Reduce exposure to xenoestrogens: Choose organic produce, avoid plastic food containers (use glass instead, and NEVER heat food or store hot food in plastic containers), and opt for natural personal care products to minimise exposure to synthetic oestrogens.

• Liver Support:

• Certain herbs can help improve liver function and enhance oestrogen detoxification, such as St Mary’s Thistle (Silybum marianum) and Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)

• Stay hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water supports overall liver function and promotes the elimination of toxins.

• Stress Management:

• Chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and regular physical activity to help regulate cortisol levels and support hormonal equilibrium.

• Exercise:

• Engaging in regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce inflammation, and support hormone balance.

• Herbal Support:

• Certain herbs, such as Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus), can help regulate hormone levels and alleviate symptoms of oestrogen dominance. However, it's important to consult with a naturopath before self-prescribing herbs like Vitex, as it can exacerbate symptoms if not used appropriately. 

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to diagnose or treat your health condition/s. If you experience these symptoms, please get in touch here so I can work with you to restore hormonal balance.