The term "estrogen" refers to a group of chemically-similar hormones, including estrone, estradiol and estriol, produced in the male and female body. Estrogen plays a vital role in the growth and development of the female sexual characteristics and reproduction. Estrogen dominance, an abundance of estrogen in comparison to progesterone, can cause a variety of physical and emotional symptoms and increase your risk for certain cancers. Eating certain foods and herbs can help naturally lower your estrogen levels to bring your hormones back into balance. However, before taking any dietary supplements or herbs, consult your doctor.
Whole Grains
Researchers at Cornell University report eating a high-fiber diet can help lower your estrogen level and bring your hormones back into balance. In grains like wheat, rye, barley, oats, corn or rice, the majority of the fiber — the portion of a plant food that your body cannot digest — is found in the bran. The term "whole grain" refers to foods made from the grain that contain the endosperm, germ and bran intact. The fiber in foods like whole grains aids in digestion and increases the elimination of chemicals like estrogen from the body. In addition, fiber decreases the amount of bacteria in the intestines that reabsorbs estrogen into the body.
Flaxseeds
Adding flaxseed to your diet, in baked goods or on top of salads, can help lower your estrogen levels. Flaxseed not only contains fiber, but also contain compounds known as lignans. The Linus Pauling Institute reports that lignans bind to estrogen receptors in your body, block the effects of estrogen and reduce the symptoms resulting from estrogen dominance. In addition, lignans alter the activity of enzymes needed to produce estrogen, therefore lowering your estrogen levels.
Cruciferous Vegetables
The group of vegetables known as cruciferous vegetables includes broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale and rutabaga. These contain a unique sulfur-containing compound known as glucosinolate. The glucosinolate not only gives these vegetables their spicy pungent taste but also alters the production and breakdown of hormones like estrogen, helping lower your estrogen levels.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is an herb commonly used to treat stomach ulcers, bronchitis and sore throat. Eastern and Western cultures have used licorice root to treat the symptoms of PMS because it may lower estrogen levels while increasing progesterone levels, according to Holisticonline.com. Consult your doctor before taking licorice root to lower your estrogen levels because it can also lower your potassium levels and cause high blood pressure, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
References
- Women to Women; Estrogen Dominance; August 2011
- Breastcancer; Food and Drink To Lower Estrogen?; October 2008
- Healthywomen: About Estrogen
- Cornell University; Whole Grains, Fiber, and Breast Cancer Risk; June 2000
- Linus Pauling Institute; Lignans; Victoria Drake; January 2010
- Linus Pauling Institute; Lignans; Victoria Drake; December 2008
- Holisticonline: Alternative Medicine for Menopause
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Licorice Root
