From the Guidelines
High estrogen levels in females should be managed with caution, prioritizing lifestyle changes and medical interventions that minimize risks of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life impairment. To address high estrogen, focus on maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower) and fiber, as these have been shown to have beneficial effects on estrogen metabolism 1. Limiting alcohol consumption, reducing exposure to xenoestrogens in plastics and pesticides, and managing stress through meditation or yoga are also recommended.
When considering medical treatments, it's essential to weigh the benefits and harms. The use of estrogen and progestin for the prevention of chronic conditions in postmenopausal women has been found to have both benefits and harms, including increased risk for breast cancer, venous thromboembolism, coronary heart disease, stroke, and cholecystitis 1. Therefore, the routine use of estrogen and progestin for the primary prevention of chronic conditions in postmenopausal women is not recommended, as the harmful effects are likely to exceed the chronic disease prevention benefits in most women.
For women with high estrogen levels, medical treatments may include aromatase inhibitors like anastrozole (1mg daily) or letrozole (2.5mg daily), or selective estrogen receptor modulators such as tamoxifen (20mg daily). Birth control adjustments might be recommended if hormonal contraceptives are contributing to symptoms. High estrogen can cause symptoms including heavy or irregular periods, breast tenderness, bloating, mood swings, headaches, and weight gain, and may result from conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, obesity, certain medications, or environmental factors.
Key considerations in managing high estrogen levels include:
- Regular monitoring through blood tests to track estrogen levels and adjust treatment as needed
- Individualized treatment plans based on age, health status, and underlying conditions
- A thorough discussion of the benefits and harms of any medical intervention with a healthcare provider
- Prioritization of lifestyle changes to minimize the need for medical treatments with potential side effects.
From the Research
High Estrogen in Females
- Estrogen is a crucial hormone for various bodily functions, including glucose homeostasis, immune response, bone health, and fertility 2.
- However, an imbalance of estrogen levels can lead to various health issues, including autoimmune diseases, neoplasms, and reproductive problems 2.
- High estrogen levels, also known as "estrogen dominance," can be caused by various factors, including obesity, stress, and exposure to environmental toxins 2.
Health Implications of High Estrogen
- High estrogen levels have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and other hormone-related cancers 3, 4.
- Estrogen dominance can also lead to reproductive issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), infertility, and gynecomastia 2.
- Additionally, high estrogen levels can contribute to metabolic problems, such as insulin resistance and weight gain 2.
Treatment Options for High Estrogen
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are commonly used to treat hormone-related cancers and other conditions associated with high estrogen levels 3, 4, 5.
- AIs, such as anastrozole and letrozole, work by inhibiting the production of estrogen in the body, while SERMs, such as tamoxifen, block the effects of estrogen on certain tissues 3, 4.
- However, these treatments may have varying degrees of efficacy and safety, and more research is needed to determine their optimal use 5, 6.