When you think of estrogen, you think of the female body; that’s true. However, did you know that the male body also has estrogen? When the estrogen level in the male body is higher than usual, it can lead to estrogen dominance. What are the causes and symptoms of estrogen dominance in men?
RELATED: “Fasting while Eating” – The Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD)
Estrogen Dominance And How It Can Affect You
What Is Estrogen Dominance in Men?
Men’s testosterone production decreases as they age, especially over the age of 50. To make matters worse, testosterone is frequently “stolen” or diverted as a result of the increased testosterone-to-estrogen conversion exacerbated particularly in men with belly fat. Aromatase, an enzyme, is responsible for the conversion of testosterone to estrogen.
It just so happens that belly fat contains high levels of aromatase. Belly fat contributes to aromatization in a vicious cycle: the more estrogen men have, the more difficult it is to shed fat and gain muscle, which means testosterone conversion to estrogen worsens.
Although the male body requires estrogen to operate properly, too much estrogen can create health issues.
Stubborn belly fat is only one of the side effects of male estrogen dominance. Excess estrogen can also induce tiredness, decreased sex desire, ED, mood changes, and an increased risk of prostate cancer. Men can develop painful nipples and gynecomastia (also known as “man boobs”) when estrogen levels are extremely high in comparison to testosterone.
Estrogen Dominance Symptoms
The high level of estrogen in a male body can create all sorts of health problems:
- Erectile dysfunction(ED). Increased estrogen levels can disrupt the hormonal balance required to achieve and maintain an erection. This is especially true if you have low testosterone.
- Delayed puberty. In boys, too much estrogen can cause delayed puberty and short stature.
- Gynecomastia. swelling or enlargement of breast tissue
- Infertility. High estrogen levels can delay sperm production and make it more difficult to produce healthy sperm.
- Depression
In addition, increases in estrogen levels in males can also be a sign of these conditions:
- Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid
- Diabetes
- Cirrhosis
- Tumors of the adrenal glands or testicles
According to research on the impact of estrogen on migraines, guys with greater estrogen levels may be at a higher risk of experiencing migraines.
In a study of men over the age of 50, researchers discovered a relationship between high estrogen levels and diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, an autoimmune illness. Participants with very high estrogen levels had a greater chance of cardiac involvement or death.
Causes of Estrogen Dominance
Your body can produce a lot of estrogens on its own or in conjunction with low amounts of testosterone.
In addition, certain substances and medications can increase the estrogen levels in the men body, such as:
- Herbs or other natural substances like ginseng and ginkgo
- Certain antibiotics
- Phenothiazines (a medicine used in treating mental conditions)
High estrogen levels can also be affected by your genetic makeup. your genes. Due to our genes, Everyone is different in how they metabolize hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. At Peak Human, you can get a test of your DNA to find out if you are predisposed to high estrogen levels.
Furthermore, several medical disorders can place you at risk of high estrogen levels, such as:
- Weight gain or obesity (as discussed above)
- Certain tumors
- Stress
- Conditions affecting hormone balances like hypogonadism
- Diseases that affect the liver
How to Deal with Estrogen Dominance
Medication
Though they are not typically suggested as a therapy, they can assist individuals in lower estrogen levels if clinically required. These medicines are available in the form of anastrozole (Arimidex) or exemestane (Aromasin). Natural aromatase inhibitors include wild nettle root, maca, and grapeseed extract. However, remember to ask your healthcare provider before using any of these options.
Lifestyle changes
One of the most common and effective ways to treat any disease or condition is to make alterations to your diet and daily routine.
A low-fat, high-fiber diet is often suggested for estrogen level management. Some foods that may be included in this type of diet are:
- Flaxseed and sesame seeds, whole grains such as corn, oats, and rice contain micronutrients call polyphenol
- Portobello and shiitake mushrooms naturally reduce aromatase
- Cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli and kale) contain compounds that inhibit estrogen synthesis.
- Pomegranates are high in estrogen-blocking phytochemicals.
Staying in shape is also important. Exercise regularly; it’s recommended that working out from 30 minutes to 1 hour every day can help prevent estrogen dominance and increase circulation in the body. Get a body fat measurement done. Generally, the ideal range for males is 15%-19% and for females 20%-24%.
Estrogen dominance can be a very serious condition if left untreated because it could lead to various other health complications. Therefore it’s best to notice any difference in the body and seek medical attention.
If you have questions about Estrogen Dominance or any of the conditions discussed here, connect with us and learn more.
At Peak Human, our team of healthcare professionals is dedicated to helping you reach your ‘peak’ health with a custom whole-person approach. Using the most cutting-edge, science-backed biohacking and aesthetic tools, technologies, and treatments available today, we help you achieve the highest physical/cognitive performance state, leading to an improved overall quality of life.
For questions or to book an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us. Get personalized support and insight from expert physicians.
UP NEXT: