Estrogen is one of the most important sex hormones in a woman’s body. It is responsible for regulating your menstrual cycle, keeping your cholesterol balanced, and protecting tissue and bone health.
When your estrogen levels are off, your whole mind, body, and spirit can feel off too. There are several reasons why you may be experiencing low estrogen levels, but most commonly, it is a normal side-effect of menopause. Nevertheless, lower estrogen levels can lead to symptoms like low bone mass, trouble sleeping, low sexual desire, mood swings, and dry skin.
Luckily, there are many safe and healthy ways to increase your estrogen levels as you age, and Renewed Vitality is right here to share some of them with you!
Incorporate Phytoestrogen Foods Into Your Diet
Did you know there are many foods that are a naturally great source of phytoestrogens? While phytoestrogen is not exactly the same thing as estrogen, this hormone can mimic estrogen in the body by binding to estrogen receptors.
Foods like soybeans, soy products, flax seeds, sesame seeds, and sesame oils are all high in phytoestrogens, and can help you begin to feel balanced again.
In fact, in one recent study, foods high in phytoestrogens were even linked to a lower risk of breast cancer!
Try Getting More of Certain Vitamins and Minerals
Certain vitamins and minerals play an important role in the creation and activation of estrogen in the body. In turn, low levels of these vitamins can lead to a reduction in estrogen levels. B vitamins (like B-2 and B-6), Vitamin D, and Boron are all excellent ways to keep your estrogen levels at acceptable rates.
In one recent study, researchers found that higher levels of B vitamins were associated with a lower risk of breast cancer, which may be due to the impact of these vitamins on estrogen metabolism.
Vitamin D also plays an important role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and facilitating estrogen synthesis. Boron on the other hand, is a trace mineral that plays a variety of roles in the body. It has been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers, and is also necessary for the metabolism of sex hormones.
Consider Certain Herbal Supplements
For those looking for an even more natural remedy, some researchers believe that herbal supplements can play a vital role in maintaining estrogen as you age. Herbs like black cohosh, chasteberry, and red clover all have at least some research that back up these claims.
Black cohosh is a traditional Native American herb that has historically been used to treat a variety of menstrual issues. Although more research is needed, some believe that black cohosh contains certain compounds that stimulate estrogen receptors, which may suggest a possible benefit of the herb when estrogen is low.
Chasteberry is another traditional herb that is perhaps best known for its use in treating gynecological conditions such as PMS. In one recent study, researchers found that chasteberry was capable of exhibiting estrogenic benefits, likely as a result of its phytoestrogen content.
Red clover is another herbal supplement that contains a handful of plant compounds called isoflavones that may be capable of mimicking estrogen in the body. These isoflavones include biochanin A, formonotin, genistein, and daidzein. A recent review study was able to find four different studies that all showed a significant increase in estrogen levels in women who used red clover supplements.
Talk to Us About Hormone Replacement Therapy
At Renewed Vitality in Wyomissing, PA, we understand the importance of proper hormonal balance in both women and men. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, don’t hesitate to contact us as soon as possible to discuss your options.
Renewed Vitality offers safe, effective hormone replacement therapy and other services to men and women throughout Berks County and beyond. Our experienced staff and patient-first attitude make us the best place to treat hormone imbalance in the local Reading area.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation, please give us a call, send us an email, or contact us online today! We’re always accepting new patients!
