What Foods Naturally Lower Estrogen Levels?

The long-term effects of elevated estrogen, particularly as it regards the increased risk of breast cancer, is a growing concern among women and men. Foods are a healthy way to naturally lower or reduce estrogen and the re-absorption of estrogen. Cabbage, broccoli and white button mushrooms can be eaten raw, frozen, pureed, juiced and cooked in order to obtain the active ingredients that naturally lower estrogen levels.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables contain a sulfur compound known as glucosinolate to reduce the circulating estrogens once they have been utilized by the body. The glucosinolate prevents damage to the DNA by improving elimination of toxins, including estrogens that have already been used by the body. The active compound of glucosinolate is released from chewing or chopping the vegetables, such as kale, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts. Cruciferous vegetables provide more than the active sulfur compounds -- they also provide fiber, flavonoid antioxidants and vitamins, such as selenium, potassium and vitamin C.

Low Glycemic Foods

Eating carbohydrates low on the Glycemic Index help stabilize insulin or blood sugar levels. The GI rates foods on how quickly they turn into sugars and how high the sugar is raised which causes insulin to be secreted. Insulin prevents the liver’s production of the sex hormone binding globulin, a substance that keeps hormones balanced. Highly refined carbohydrate and sugar intake have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Reducing insulin levels can be achieved by replacing a high glycemic food with a low glycemic food, such as whole wheat tortillas in place of white flour tortillas and brown rice in place of white rice.

White Button Mushroom

The white button mushroom contains a phytochemical that acts as an aromatase inhibitor. Aromatase inhibitors prevent the improper conversion of androgens to estrogens, a known risk factor in the development of breast cancer. The extract of the white button mushroom supports aromatase which has been active against breast cancer cells. White button mushrooms are available in markets year-round and are a great addition to salads, steamed vegetables or as a side dish.

Healthy Servings

According to the American Cancer Society, eating five or more servings of vegetables and fruits per day may have an impact on reducing the risk of recurrence and improving survival rates for several types of cancers. Many adults are unsure of exactly what amount a serving is -- one medium apple is a serving of whole fruit, one medium potato is a vegetable serving, a half cup of chopped fruit or vegetable is a serving, and a half cup of pure fruit or vegetable juice is a serving.

What Foods Naturally Lower Estrogen Levels?

Cruciferous Vegetables

Low Glycemic Foods

White Button Mushroom

Healthy Servings

References

Must see: Photo Galleries

20 Of The Smartest Fitness Trainers You Might Not Know

The 13 Activities You Do The Most

20 Fitness Gadgets That Actually Work