Excess Estrogen

Hormone Balance

Hormones are our body’s messengers, sending signals and information to every system of your body on how to operate. It is critical that our hormones maintain certain levels in order to function and communicate properly.

One of the most common hormonal imbalances is excess estrogen, particularly among women. Not only can this condition disrupt the menstrual cycle, but it also has serious implications on overall reproductive health.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms outlined below, the best way to determine whether or not you have hormone imbalance is through lab testing with your doctor.

causes of excess estrogen

Adequate estrogen levels are determined by comparing the ratio of the 3 different types of estrogen - estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3) - to progesterone. Without proper progesterone levels, estrogen can become too high, also known as excess estrogen. Estrogen is meant to fluctuate throughout a woman's menstrual cycle. It should be low during your period and peak again before ovulation. Progesterone helps balance and neutralize the effects of too much estrogen.

The main causes of excess estrogen are typically either that the body is making too much estrogen, or it isn’t breaking down external estrogen and removing it effectively.

Overproduction and poor breakdown can be caused by:

• Medications

• Xenoestrogens

• Chronic stress

• Liver dysfunction

• Leaky gut

• Excess body weight

• Nutrient deficiencies

• Lack of protective dietary fiber

• Dysbiosis

Symptoms of Excess Estrogen

Symptoms vary depending on the individual, but common symptoms experienced by women are:

• Heavy or irregular menstrual periods

• Rapid weight gain

• Anxiety or depression

• Mood swings

• Bloating

• Migraines

• Fatigue or brain fog

• PCOS

• Fibroids or Endometriosis

• Difficulty sleeping

ways to reduce

excess estrogen

The first step is to identify the root cause. This varies by individual and is usually determined by lab work and assessing your overall health profile.

Here are a few ways to help rebalance estrogen levels by addressing the most common triggers:

• Support your liver and gallbladder

• Lower stress

• Support methylation with critical nutrients & supplements

• Switch to non-hormonal birth control

• Try adaptogens

• Get enough sleep

• Use non-toxic products

• Regulate blood sugar

• Strength train 2-3x per week