Factors Contributing to Elevated Estrogen Levels in Women
Estrogens are a group of vital sex hormones in females that play a crucial role in their reproductive system. Naturally, estrogen levels rise during puberty and pregnancy. However, there are instances when estrogen levels can increase independently, or when they rise alongside a decrease in other hormones such as testosterone or progesterone. Several factors can lead to elevated estrogen levels, including:
Medications
Certain medications can raise estrogen levels in the body. Notable examples include:
- Phenothiazines, which are used to treat various psychiatric and mood disorders.
- Some herbal and natural remedies.
- Certain antibiotics, such as ampicillin and tetracyclines.
- Hormonal contraception.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), a common treatment for menopausal symptoms, which may elevate estrogen levels to a point that can cause health issues.
Stress
Chronic stress is one of the leading factors that can elevate estrogen levels in women. During stress, cortisol levels in the body increase, and to maintain high cortisol levels, significant amounts of progesterone are utilized for its production. This results in a decrease in progesterone levels to a point where they cannot balance estrogen levels, leading to an increase in total estrogen in the body.
Body Fat
Adipose tissue can synthesize estrogen from other hormones in the body and store it within the bloodstream. Consequently, obesity and increased body fat can lead to heightened estrogen levels, potentially causing various health complications.
Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyle habits can affect estrogen levels, including:
- Water: Drinking water may contain harmful chemicals that can produce compounds affecting the endocrine system and potentially raise estrogen levels.
- Diet: Growth hormones injected into poultry and livestock can influence estrogen levels, as can the consumption of fruits and vegetables that are not thoroughly washed to remove pesticide residues.
Xenoestrogen-contaminated Products
A variety of everyday materials contain xenoestrogens, which mimic estrogen and may disrupt endocrine function and increase estrogen levels. Examples include:
- Fragrances: These may also contain endocrine-disrupting substances.
- Personal care products and cosmetics, which can contain xenoestrogens such as:
- Parabens.
- Phthalates.
- Benzophenone.
- Heavy metals: Metals like cadmium, lead, and mercury are present in our polluted environment and can raise estrogen levels due to their estrogen-mimicking properties.
- Plastic products: For instance, plastic bags used for food storage can leach xenoestrogens into food, leading to significant health consequences.
Other Factors
Elevated estrogen levels may also have genetic causes or be linked to certain health problems, including:
- Dysbiosis: An imbalance in the gut microbiome can slow down digestion and hinder the body’s ability to eliminate estrogen, leading to its reabsorption into the bloodstream.
- Ovarian tumors.
- Liver diseases.
Preventing Elevated Estrogen Levels in Women
While it may not be possible to entirely prevent the rise in estrogen levels and the accumulation of harmful metabolites, following specific guidelines can help manage this issue effectively. These include:
- Choosing organic and whole plant-based foods. Organic produce is not treated with pesticides that disrupt hormonal balance and does not contain natural or injected hormones.
- Managing stress: It is advisable to share feelings and problems with others, such as friends, family, or healthcare providers, and to limit exposure to anxiety-inducing news. Additionally, ensuring adequate rest and sleep is beneficial.
- Engaging in regular physical exercise: Physical activity can help lower estrogen levels and control body fat, which secretes estrogen. Consultation with a physician before starting a new exercise routine is recommended.
- Avoiding plastic containers: These often contain xenoestrogens.