Understanding Estrogen’s Complex Role in Health
Estrogen can be quite perplexing — let’s unravel why.
Is estrogen a friend or foe? It seems to wear both hats. On one hand, research shows that estrogen shields against cardiovascular disease, improves bone health, and reduces mortality rates. On the other hand, elevated estrogen levels are associated with conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, breast cancer, and heightened clotting risks in women using oral contraceptives.
This seeming contradiction stems from several factors:
- The type of estrogen matters: estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3) each have distinct effects.
- Estrogen sources differ: oral contraceptives often use estrogen from pregnant mares, not identical to human estrogen.
- Estrogen’s impact varies by tissue and timing: optimal levels in the brain support cognitive health, but excess in breast tissue can pose risks.
The foundational step to hormonal balance begins with lifestyle adjustments that nurture hormone health. Before considering estrogen supplementation, ensuring the right type, amount, and timing of estrogen is crucial.
Opting for bioidentical hormones in replacement therapy aligns with our body’s natural estrogen (17B-estradiol), reducing variability. However, lifestyle remains pivotal in regulating estrogen levels effectively.
Simple changes like avoiding plastic products (e.g., water bottles, food containers) that mimic estrogen can positively influence hormone balance. Opting for glass or stainless steel alternatives can mitigate estrogen-related concerns.
Modern nutrition and stress also play roles in estrogen regulation. Taking proactive steps toward a healthier lifestyle can significantly impact estrogen balance.
A study by Wehbe et al. underscores the link between estrogen and Bisphenol A (BPA) in hypertension, highlighting BPA’s estrogenic effects and its potential impact on cardiovascular health.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t fret — each step toward nurturing your Toxins Tolerance, the 4th Pillar of Whole-Body Health, is a significant stride on your wellness journey.
Reference:
Wehbe Z, Nasser SA, El-Yazbi A, Nasreddine S, Eid AH. Estrogen and Bisphenol A in Hypertension. Curr Hypertens Rep. 2020 Feb 29;22(3):23. doi: 10.1007/s11906-020-1022-z. PMID: 32114652.
