Estrogen refers to a group of hormones produced in both the female and male body. These hormones are required for normal growth and development of female sexual characteristics and reproduction. According to "Healthy Women," the role of estrogen in men is less clear. Estrogen is important for a healthy pregnancy, and your levels may fluctuate with physical and emotional changes, such as menopause. Estrogen can also help to prevent bone loss, a condition characteristic of osteoporosis. If you have low estrogen, you may be able to take natural supplements that can either raise your estrogen levels or act as estrogen. You can discuss options with your doctor.
Soy
Soy is a dietary product that has traditionally been used in Asia, and can now be found in the United States. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, soybeans contain isoflavones, substances that act similar to estrogen hormones. If you have low estrogen, you might consider increasing your intake of soy products such as tofu, edamame, and tempeh. These foods can be added to salads and stir-fries for an extra boost.
Red Clover
Red clover is a herb that is a part of the legumes family. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, this herb can supply your body with phytoestrogens. Phytoestogens are similar to estrogen hormones and thus may function in a similar manner. Red clover has been used for conditions such as menopausal symptoms and bone loss, that are associated with estrogen. This herb can be found in tablet, capsule, tea, or liquid form. Check with your doctor before taking this supplement and do not use it to replace other forms of treatment.
Black Cohosh
A part of the buttercup family of plants, black cohosh is a herb that may be helpful if you have low estrogen. This herb has been used to treat menopausal symptoms, a group of symptoms that occur when estrogen levels decrease later in a woman's life. These symptoms include night sweats, vaginal dryness, and hot flashes. Evidence, however, is inconclusive and more studies are required. This herb can be taken as a tea, liquid extract, or capsule. Check with your doctor before taking this herbal supplement and do not use it to replace other forms of therapy.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Low Estrogen Levels During Pregnancy Can Reduce Future Fertility For Female Offspring
- Healthy Women: Estrogen
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Soy
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Red Clover
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Black Cohosh
