During the years leading up to menopause, a woman’s hormone levels may fluctuate, resulting in hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness and other common premenopausal discomforts. Symptoms of "estrogen dominance"—a term popularized by the late John R. Lee, M.D., a leading researcher and author on the subject of hormonal fluctuations—may respond well to natural remedies and lifestyle changes.
Progesterone
Progesterone, like estrogen, is manufactured in the body and during most of a woman’s reproductive years; her body produces both of these hormones in a balanced ratio. When estrogen levels spike, however, she may benefit from a natural source of progesterone to bring her estrogen levels under control.
Wild yam cream, available in health food stores, is the main source of natural progesterone, replacing its synthetic counterpart, progestin, which is available only by prescription. By extracting the active ingredient, diosgenin, from wild yams, this plant-based formulation may be more readily accepted by a woman’s body. A dosage of 20 to 30 milligrams (mg) per day applied topically to the skin may offer relief of perimenopausal symptoms due to estrogen dominance. Any woman currently under a doctor’s care for her symptoms should consult her physician about starting a natural progesterone replacement regime. At higher dosages, side effects may include drowsiness, temporary water retention and yeast infection.
Supplements
Some natural supplements may assist in reducing the symptoms of estrogen dominance, including a daily dose of up to 1,000 mg of grape seed extract, up to 4 grams of taurine or a daily capsule of fish oil (derived from deep-water fish). Adding a calcium supplement may also help protect a woman’s bones.
Diet and Lifestyle
A healthy low-fat diet may minimize symptoms. Choose foods high in natural fiber, such as carrots, celery, and whole grain cereals and breads, while reducing or eliminating caffeine and alcohol.
Embark on a regular exercise routine that includes at least 30 minutes of gentle aerobic exercise daily, such as brisk walking, swimming, aerobics or indoor cycling class. Clear any new exercise program with your doctor before beginning.
