Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones that play an important role in both females and males. It is responsible for the development of what we consider "feminine" traits and works together with other hormones like progesterone and testosterone to regulate various processes in the body.
What are the roles of estrogen?
Some of the major functions of estrogen include:
- Regulating the menstrual cycle - Estrogen levels fluctuate through the menstrual cycle causing changes to the uterine lining and eventually triggering ovulation when estrogen drops. It works together with progesterone during the luteal phase.
- Maintaining bone density - Estrogen plays a vital role in bone remodeling and maintaining bone mass. Post-menopause, dropping estrogen levels lead to accelerated bone loss.
- Regulating cholesterol - Estrogen increases "good cholesterol" (HDL) and lowers "bad cholesterol" (LDL) levels when present at the right levels.
- Influencing skin and hair health - Estrogen improves skin thickness, hydration and collagen levels leading to firmer skin. It also plays a role in hair growth.
- Affecting the brain and mood - Estrogen receptors are present in key areas of the brain like the amygdala and hippocampus. This could explain mood fluctuations during times of fluctuating estrogen.
If you're experiencing issues like hormonal imbalances, fertility troubles or menopause symptoms, the professionals at Vitality Hormone Clinic can help get to the root cause with customized lab testing and evidence-based treatment plans to help you regain optimal hormonal health and wellbeing.
What are the different types of estrogen?
The three major estrogens in women are:
- Estrone (E1) - The lowest levels of this weaker form of estrogen are present post-menopause
- 17?-estradiol (E2) - The predominant and most potent estrogen from menarche until menopause
- Estriol (E3) - The estrogen produced in high levels during pregnancy
The primary estrogen in men is 17?-estradiol, which plays various physiological roles especially in brain function regulation.
What are some natural ways to balance estrogen?
Some evidence-based approaches to balance estrogen levels naturally include:
- Maintaining a healthy diet and body weight
- Engaging in regular exercise
- Reducing stress
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Considering supplements like flaxseeds, soy, spearmint tea
However, always consult your doctor before making any major lifestyle or dietary changes, especially if you have a pre-existing condition. The experts at Vitality Hormone Clinic can suggest personalized diet and lifestyle changes tailored to your needs.
In summary, estrogen is an integral sex hormone with wide-ranging impacts on female reproductive health, bone density, cholesterol levels, skin health and mental wellbeing. Changes in estrogen levels at different life stages or medical conditions causing estrogen imbalance can benefit from professional medical guidance to restore optimal hormonal balance through lifestyle changes or bioidentical hormone therapy when needed.