Estrogen is the main female sex hormone that is responsible for the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system.

How many types of estrogen are there?

There are three types of estrogen: estrone, estradiol, and estriol.

Do men have estrogen?

Yes, men have both estrogen and testosterone. Estrogen and testosterone occur naturally in males and females, but men have more of the latter and less of the former, while the reverse is true for women.

What is the difference between estrogen and testosterone?

Estrogen is the main female sex hormone, while testosterone is the main male sex hormone.

What are some common food sources of estrogen?

Estrogen-rich food sources include soy, cruciferous vegetables, berries, seeds and grains, nuts, fruits, and wine.

What is estrogen dominance?

It is a condition that is characterized by high levels of estrogen in the blood.

What causes estrogen imbalance?

It may be caused by pregnancy, medical conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, menopause, puberty, PCOS, age, weight, consumption of medications such as steroids and ampicillin, strenuous exercise, over-dieting/anorexia nervosa, primary ovarian insufficiency, congenital conditions such as Turner’s syndrome, an underactive pituitary gland, and ovarian tumors or tumors in the renal glands.

What are the effects of estrogen imbalance?

Estrogen imbalance may cause depression and anxiety, mood changes/mood swings, irregular menstrual cycle, fatigue, low sex drive, light/heavy bleeding during menstruation, dry skin, weight gain, hot flashes and night sweats (particularly for menopausal women), sleeping problems, vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy, or non-cancerous lumps in the breast and uterus. An estrogen imbalance can cause infertility, erectile dysfunction, larger breasts, excess belly fat, and low libido in males.

What estrogen foods should females avoid?

The foods females need to avoid include flax seeds, dried fruits, sesame seeds, garlic, peaches, berries, wheat bran, tofu, tempeh, dairy products, meat, alcohol, grains, and legumes.

What estrogen foods should males avoid?

Males should avoid foods that contain or promote estrogen-like compounds, such as soy-based products, excessive alcohol, and processed foods.

Which diets can help reduce estrogen levels?

Mediterranean diets, fiber-rich diets, and plant-based diets may help keep your estrogen levels in check.

What are some estrogen-rich foods for menopause?

You should focus on building a balanced plate with sources of vitamins, fiber, and protein. Therefore, opt for sesame seeds, soybeans and edamame, tofu, dried fruits, whole grains, peaches, and plums.

What can you do to keep your estrogen levels in check?

Exercise regularly to get rid of excess fat Consume a fiber-rich diet Consider switching to a Mediterranean diet Limit your consumption of animal products Avoid refined carbs and processed foods Drink alcohol in moderation