Estrogen Dominance: Wreaks Havoc in Women and in Men

Estrogen dominance is a condition that affects both men and women, leading to a variety of health issues due to an imbalance in hormone levels. As a physician who has seen firsthand the impact of estrogen dominance in patients, on my own body and within my own family, I understand how profoundly it can affect our lives. Let’s delve into how to identify, test for, and treat estrogen dominance in both men and women, and explore what happens if estrogen levels are over-treated and how to address estrogen deficiency.

Understanding Estrogen Dominance

Estrogen is a crucial hormone in both men and women, playing a significant role in reproductive health, metabolism, mood regulation, and overall bodily function. However, when estrogen levels become too high relative to other hormones, particularly progesterone in women and testosterone in men, it can lead to estrogen dominance.

Causes of Estrogen Dominance:

• Environmental Factors: Exposure to xenoestrogens found in plastics, pesticides, and personal care products.

• Body Fat: Increased body fat contributes to higher estrogen levels due to the aromatase enzyme converting other hormones into estrogen.

• Diet: Diets high in processed foods, sugar, and alcohol can disrupt hormone balance.

• Age: Hormonal changes with aging can shift the balance towards estrogen dominance.

Symptoms of Estrogen Dominance

In Women:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding and severe cramping

• Breast pain and swelling

• Mood swings and depression

• Weight gain, especially around the hips and thighs

• Fatigue and low energy

• Headaches and migraines

• Increased incidence of allergies and immune reactions

In Men:

• Development of breast tissue (gynecomastia)

• Weight gain, particularly around the midsection

• Decreased libido and erectile dysfunction

• Mood swings and irritability

• Fatigue and low energy levels

• Loss of muscle mass and strength

Testing for Estrogen Dominance

To diagnose estrogen dominance, comprehensive hormone testing is essential. The following blood markers are commonly assessed:

Total Estrogens: Provides an overall picture of estrogen levels by pooling together estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3).

Estradiol (E2): The most potent form of estrogen, critical for evaluating estrogen status in both men and women.

Estrone (E1) and Estriol (E3): While less potent, measuring these can provide additional insights into estrogen metabolism, in women.

Additionally,  a dried urine test can provide a detailed profile of sex hormones and their metabolites, offering insights into hormone production and metabolism throughout the day.

Treatment of Estrogen Dominance

Lifestyle Changes:

• Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods and sugars.

• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps reduce body fat and balance hormones.

Supplements:

• DIM (Diindolylmethane): Supports estrogen metabolism.

• Calcium D-Glucarate: Helps the body eliminate excess estrogen.

• Peptides: Peptides can regulate the production and function of hormones by binding to specific receptors, promoting the health of hormone-producing organs like the pituitary gland, thyroid, and adrenal glands.

Medications:

• Aromatase Inhibitors: Drugs like anastrozole, letrozole, or aromasin can lower estrogen levels by inhibiting the conversion of other hormones into estrogen.

Over-Treatment and Estrogen Deficiency: if you over-treat dominance, you could end up with too low of estrogen levels.

Symptoms of Estrogen Deficiency:

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Vaginal dryness and discomfort

• Fatigue and low energy

• Depression and mood swings

• Loss of libido

• Dry eyes and mouth

Balancing Estrogen Deficiency:

• Adjusting Medication: Reducing the dose or frequency of estrogen-lowering medications.

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): Using BHRT to restore optimal estrogen levels.

• Peptides: Supporting the body's natural hormone production through peptide therapy.

The Role of Estrogen in Weight Loss Regimens

If you're considering a weight loss regimen, it’s essential to check for estrogen dominance. Elevated estrogen levels can hinder weight loss efforts and make it more challenging to achieve your goals. By addressing estrogen dominance first, you can create a more conducive environment for effective weight loss.

Final Thoughts

In my clinical experience, dialing in estrogen levels with a personalized approach is crucial for effectively managing hormone imbalances. Everyone responds differently to treatments, much like we each need unique approaches to change our mindset and evolve. By understanding your genetic profile, environmental exposures, and lifestyle, we can make precise decisions to achieve optimal health. Incorporating advanced technologies like biomagnetic resonance assessments adds a layer of biophysical data, acknowledging that we are not only genetic and epigenetic beings but also bioenergetic entities with complex emotional and mental landscapes.

If you suspect you have symptoms of estrogen dominance, feel free to reach out. You can also visit our HORMONES program and our WEIGHTLOSS program.