Let’s Talk About Estrogen Dominance
ESTROGEN DOMINANCE 101
Struggling with weight gain, mood swings, or painful periods? Estrogen dominance may be to blame.
Estrogen dominance occurs when there is an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone—specifically, when estrogen levels are too high relative to progesterone. While estrogen plays a crucial role in reproductive health, it also impacts brain function, skin, bone density, cholesterol levels, blood sugar regulation, and more.
We need estrogen to thrive, but too much of it can lead to a range of unwanted symptoms.
Causes of Estrogen Dominance
Estrogen dominance can develop due to:
Excess estrogen production by the body
Low progesterone levels, making estrogen’s effects more pronounced
Poor estrogen detoxification, meaning the body struggles to remove excess estrogen effectively
Common Signs of Estrogen Dominance
If your hormones are out of balance, you may experience:
Heavy or painful periods
Irregular menstrual cycles
Increased PMS symptoms
Mood swings & irritability
Fatigue
Insomnia
Weight gain (especially around the hips and thighs)
Hair loss
Memory issues or brain fog
Tender, fibrocystic breasts
Decreased libido
Headaches or migraines
Infertility
Testing for Estrogen Dominance
The DUTCH test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) is the gold standard for hormone testing. This at-home urine and saliva test provides a comprehensive look at sex and adrenal hormones, helping to identify estrogen dominance.
How to Address Estrogen Dominance Naturally
The good news? There are effective lifestyle changes you can make to help restore hormonal balance.
1. Manage Stress
Chronic stress can deplete progesterone levels, worsening estrogen dominance. Incorporate mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your routine.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight & Exercise Regularly
Fat cells produce estrogen, so maintaining a healthy weight can help keep estrogen levels in check. Aim for a balanced mix of strength training, cardio, and movement throughout the day.
3. Reduce Toxin Exposure
Many environmental toxins, known as endocrine disruptors, mimic estrogen in the body. Reduce exposure by:
Avoiding plastics (switch to glass or stainless steel for food storage and drinking water)
Choosing natural, non-toxic personal care and household products
Filtering your drinking water
4. Support Your Liver & Gut Health
The liver and gut play key roles in estrogen detoxification. Support them with a fiber-rich, nutrient-dense diet:
High-fiber foods: Lentils, black beans, avocado, quinoa, pears, apples, raspberries, chia seeds, almonds
Cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage
Fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, miso
5. Limit Sugar & Alcohol
Excess sugar and alcohol can disrupt blood sugar balance and overload the liver, making it harder to detox excess estrogen.
6. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Poor sleep can disrupt hormone production. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Supplements to Support Hormonal Balance
Always consult with a healthcare professional before adding supplements to your routine. Some options that may help with estrogen dominance include:
DIM (Diindolylmethane) – A compound found in cruciferous vegetables that supports estrogen metabolism and detoxification.
Chasteberry (Vitex) – Known to help balance hormones by lowering excess estrogen and boosting progesterone production.
Magnesium Glycinate – Aids in clearing excess estrogen, supports the nervous system, and promotes restful sleep.
Calcium-D-Glucarate – Supports liver detoxification and helps prevent reabsorption of excess estrogen.
Final Thoughts
Estrogen dominance can cause frustrating symptoms, but with the right lifestyle changes, you can regain balance. Focus on stress management, toxin reduction, proper nutrition, and liver support to keep your hormones working for you—not against you.
Have you experienced signs of estrogen dominance and want to help balance your hormones naturally? Let’s chat!