The hormone estrogen plays a crucial role in a woman’s body.

Estrogen is responsible for the menstrual cycle, ovulation,bone health, cardiovascular health,healthy skin and nails and mood regulation.

However an excess of anything even this amazing hormone poses danger to us.

This can be seen in dry and brittle hair and nails, heavy/irregular periods, bloating, weight gain, low bone density e.t.c

It sucks basically and has to be controlled.

Causes of excess estrogen

This state is also referred to as estrogen dominance.

Here are some of the plausible causes:

Issues in estrogen metabolism and detoxification

The liver is responsible for breaking down and removing excess estrogen.

This task can be interrupted by an unhealthy liver due to alcohol, poor diet, and toxins

Chronic stress

The stress hormone cortisol disrupts the production of the hormone progesterone which balances out estrogen.

Obesity

Fat tissues produce estrone a form of estrogen.

Hormonal birth control

This form of birth control, i.e., the pill,, contains synthetic estrogen an,d, if used long-term, can bring about excessive estrogen if not balanced out with progesterone.

Overconsumption of estrogenic foods

Overconsumption of certain foods can lead to increased levels of estrogen in our bodies such as dairy, meat, soy, processed sugars, and foods.

Exposure to xenoestrogens.

Xenoestrogens are synthetic or natural chemical compounds that mimic the estrogen in our bodies.

It can be found in certain plastic like BPA,some personal and beauty care products(parabens), household cleaners, pesticides e.t.c

How to avoid excessive estrogen levels

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Reduce stress.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat for hormone balance, i.e., foods rich in fiber, healthy fats, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli.
• Ditch Xenoestrogens by opting for ceramics instead of plastic utensils, organic cleaning supplies, clean personal care products e.t.c
• Drink lots of water and avoid excessive alcohol.

Are you ready to start balancing your estrogen levels? Here’s a pro tip: research about the ways to determine your estrogen levels, or ask your doctor.