Estrogen dominance - Hormone Harmony Clinic

What is estrogen dominance?

Estrogen dominance refers to a condition where a woman has excessive estrogen levels compared to progesterone levels. This hormonal imbalance can develop due to various factors like chronic stress, poor diet, environmental toxins, etc.

The signs and symptoms of estrogen dominance include:

• Irregular periods or spotting
• Bloating and water retention
• Weight gain especially around the hips and thighs
• Fibrocystic breasts
• Headaches and migraines
• Mood swings, anxiety, irritability
• Fatigue and low energy

Estrogen dominance has become quite common nowadays due to the prevalence of xenoestrogens in our environment. Xenoestrogens are artificial estrogens from sources like pesticides, plastics, growth hormones in foods, etc. Exposure to these compounds leads to an estrogen overload, potentially causing the issues mentioned above.

So what can you do if you suspect estrogen dominance? Getting tested for hormone levels is a good starting point. This allows you to confirm the imbalance and track progress with treatment.

In terms of treatment, a multi-pronged approach works best:

• Support liver detoxification - The liver helps flush out excess hormones so supporting its function is crucial. Eating cruciferous veggies like broccoli and supplements like milk thistle can help.
• Promote progesterone - Progesterone opposes estrogen’s effects in the body. Options to boost levels include progesterone creams, diet changes to balance blood sugar, and managing stress.
• Reduce xenoestrogen exposure - Cut down on plastics, conventional body care/cleaning products, and non-organic produce when possible. Improving gut health and adding a chlorophyll supplement can ease toxin removal as well.
• Balance blood sugar - When blood sugar is unstable, the body may overproduce estrogen and other hormones. A low-glycemic diet, proper meal spacing, and nutrients like magnesium and zinc help stabilize levels.

The professionals at Hormone Harmony Clinic offer comprehensive testing and evidence-based plans to correct estrogen dominance through lifestyle interventions, nutrition support, and bioidentical hormone therapy when appropriate. I highly recommend them to anyone struggling with hormonal issues. With an individualized approach, most women find relief from the unpleasant symptoms associated with this common imbalance.