Estrogen 101: Why Hormone Balance Is Important
Nourish Your Hormones
Reclaim Your Balance ⚖️
In this Newsletter:
➡️ Estrogen 101
➡️ Causes and Symptoms of Imbalance
➡️ Natural Ways to Balance Your Estrogen
➡️ Supplements for Hormonal Health
Ever experienced mood swings, breast tenderness, bloating, or low libido? I definitely did!
Several years ago, after taking a combined contraceptive pill for a while, I started having extreme mood swings, breast tenderness that made certain bras really uncomfortable, and a nosedive in my libido. That’s when I began suspecting estrogen dominance, because contraceptive pills can contribute to hormonal imbalances in some women.
To address it naturally - and after consulting my doctors - I introduced diet changes, stress management techniques, and gentle detox practices while I was still on the pill. Over time, I noticed small yet meaningful improvements. Progress was encouraging, but it still wasn’t enough, so eventually, I decided to go off the pill. I kept up my balanced habits, like prioritizing exercise and liver support through diet and supplements.
I found these practices so beneficial that I wanted to share them with you! 🌸
Estrogen 101: Why Balance Matters
If you’ve ever dealt with mood swings, stubborn weight gain, breast tenderness, low libido, or irregular cycles, you know how frustrating it can be. Estrogen could be a key factor!
Estrogen is often called the primary female sex hormone. It helps develop female characteristics, regulates the menstrual cycle, and supports bone health, heart health, and even mood. When everything is balanced, estrogen helps you feel confident and healthy. But too much estrogen relative to progesterone (a state known as “estrogen dominance”) can throw things out of whack. Hormone imbalances are common - some estimates suggest up to 80% of women over 35 experience estrogen dominance at some point in their lives.
What Causes Estrogen to Become Unbalanced?
➡️ Hormonal Fluctuations
In your 20s to 40s, estrogen can spike or dip due to changes in your menstrual cycle, birth control, or conditions like PCOS. If progesterone is low (especially in the second half of your cycle), estrogen’s effects can dominate.
➡️ Diet and Weight
A diet high in processed foods and low in fiber impairs estrogen elimination. Excess body fat actually produces more estrogen (fat cells convert other hormones into estrogen).
➡️ Stress
Chronic stress drives up cortisol (the stress hormone), which is made from the same precursors as sex hormones. High cortisol can steal resources from progesterone production, creating a relative excess of estrogen.
➡️ Lack of Exercise
A sedentary lifestyle often leads to weight gain and higher estrogen. Regular exercise burns fat (which reduces estrogen production) and improves estrogen metabolism.
➡️ Poor Liver Detox (and Gut Health)
The liver breaks down excess estrogen so you can eliminate it. If liver function is sluggish (due to alcohol, toxins, or nutrient deficiencies) or your gut bacteria are imbalanced, estrogen can build up instead of being cleared.
Common Signs of Estrogen Imbalance
❗Mood Swings – Irritability, anxiety, or depression that’s out of proportion, often right before your period.
❗Bloating & Weight Gain – Especially around hips/thighs, or difficulty losing weight despite good habits.
❗Breast Tenderness – Sore or swollen breasts, sometimes fibrocystic changes.
❗Low Libido – Diminished sex drive and lower energy.
❗Irregular or Heavy Periods – Cycles shorter than 24 days, longer than 35, or very heavy flow.
❗PMS Symptoms – Headaches, migraines, or severe bloating before your period.
❗Fatigue & Brain Fog – Tiredness or fuzzy thinking, especially in the luteal phase (after ovulation).
On the flip side, low estrogen can lead to hot flashes, night sweats, and low mood. In short, balance is key - not too much, not too little, but just right.
👉 Note: Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other issues. Always consult your healthcare provider for a proper evaluation. But if you suspect estrogen imbalance, the natural tips below may help.
Natural Practices to Balance Estrogen
The exciting news? Lifestyle changes can have a huge impact on hormone balance. Here’s how to get started:
Nutrition
Cruciferous Veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale) are rich in compounds that help your liver break down estrogen into safer forms.
Leafy Greens, garlic, onions, and beets also aid liver function.
High-Fiber Foods (veggies, fruits, whole grains, flaxseed, chia) help bind excess estrogen in your gut and eliminate it - just remember to stay hydrated so things keep moving!
Flaxseeds contain phytoestrogens (lignans) that can block stronger estrogens and support healthier estrogen metabolism.
Healthy Fats - Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil, walnuts, or chia seeds) help manage inflammation and hormone balance. Aim for a better ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fats.
👉 Tip: Minimize processed foods and added sugars, as they can worsen insulin resistance and hormone imbalance.
Exercise
Regular physical activity reduces body fat (thus lowering estrogen production) and can directly lower bioavailable estrogen. Studies show consistent exercise is tied to a 25–30% lower risk of breast cancer in part due to this hormone effect. Aim for moderate daily activity (walking, jogging, dancing – anything you enjoy!) most days, plus some form of resistance training a couple times a week to build muscle.
Stress Management
High stress = high cortisol, which can steal resources from progesterone production, pushing you toward estrogen dominance. Try meditation, yoga, daily walks, or journaling to calm your mind. Even just deep breathing exercises for a few minutes a day can lower cortisol.
Go Easy on Alcohol
Too much alcohol can raise estrogen, partly because your liver prioritizes breaking down alcohol over hormones. Moderate your intake or take a break if possible.
Supplements for Estrogen Balance
Sometimes, adding specific supplements or food-based nutrients can give you an extra edge in balancing estrogen metabolism. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting supplements, especially if you have a condition, take other medications or are generally unsure.
🌸 DIM (Diindolylmethane)
Compound derived from cruciferous veggies; helps shift estrogen metabolism toward milder forms.
🌸 Magnesium
Aids liver to detox excess estrogen. Beyond that, magnesium can ease menstrual cramps, improve sleep, and reduce stress. Food sources include dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
🌸 Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)
As mentioned, omega-3 fats have been shown to support healthy estrogen metabolism. At the very least, omega-3s support overall hormonal health by reducing inflammation and cortisol levels. One of the best food sources - wild-caught fish.
🌸 Maca Root
Acts as an adaptogen, helping your body adapt to stress and supporting overall hormonal harmony
🌸Ashwagandha & Rhodiola
Adaptogenic herbs that lower cortisol and help indirectly improve estrogen/progesterone balance.
👉 Tip: Always source high-quality supplements, follow recommended dosage and talk to a healthcare provider, especially if unsure.
Balance is a Holistic Approach
Maintaining estrogen balance is about a holistic approach - healthy food, movement, rest, and stress relief. Even small changes add up! A few more daily servings of veggies, a walk, solid sleep routines, and possibly a supportive supplement can help your body find its natural rhythm. The result? More energy, a brighter mood, smoother cycles, and feeling more like yourself all month long.
Remember, every body is unique - it might take some patience to find your perfect balance. But armed with these strategies, you’re set up for success. You’ve got this! 💪
Here’s to a healthier, happier you!