Estrogen- significant impact on women's health.

Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate vital body functions. Among them, estrogen plays a crucial role in reproductive health, brain function, energy, mood, bones, heart, skin, and more.

Main Female Hormones

• Understanding the Three Estrogens: E1, E2, E3

  1. Estrone (E1)-

  • A weaker form of estrogen, mainly produced after menopause.

  • Made from androgens via the enzyme aromatase (found in ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat tissue).

  • Supports basic estrogen functions, but is less potent than estradiol.

  2. Estradiol (E2)-

  • The most potent and common estrogen in women of reproductive age.

  • Produced by the ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat tissue.

  • Key for fertility, menstrual cycles, ovulation, bone health, brain function, and libido.

  • Supports energy, blood flow, serotonin production, and skin health.

  3. Estriol (E3)

  • Mainly rises during pregnancy.

  • Helps the uterus grow and prepares the body for childbirth.

  • Considered the weakest estrogen but essential for fetal development and maternal health.

• Progesterone & Testosterone – reproductive and metabolic balance

• Thyroid hormones – energy, metabolism, weight control

• Cortisol – stress response, blood sugar, immunity

Why Estrogen Matters

• Reproductive health: Supports ovulation, menstrual cycle, uterus, and vagina.

• Brain function: Enhances memory, mood, sleep, and protects against cognitive decline.

• Metabolism & Heart: Regulates blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight distribution.

• Bones & Muscles: Promotes bone density and muscle strength.

• Skin & Sensory health: Maintains collagen, hydration, tear and saliva production.

Symptoms of Low Estrogen-Research-Based-

• Reproductive & Sexual Health:

  • Irregular or absent periods

  • Vaginal dryness or irritation

  • Painful intercourse

  • Decreased libido

  Energy & Mood:

  • Persistent fatigue or low energy

  • Brain fog/memory issues

  • Mood swings, anxiety, or depression

  Sleep & Thermoregulation:

  • Hot flashes

  • Night sweats

  • Insomnia or poor sleep quality

  Metabolism & Body Composition:

  • Weight gain (hips, waist, thighs)

  • Reduced muscle mass

  • Slower metabolism

  Bones & Muscles:

  • Decreased bone density → osteopenia/osteoporosis

  • Muscle weakness or slower recovery

  Cardiovascular Health:

  • Higher blood pressure

  • Changes in cholesterol

  • Increased risk of heart issues

  Skin, Hair & Mucous Membranes:

  • Thinning or dry skin

  • Hair thinning or loss

  • Dry eyes, oral dryness, gum sensitivity

  Other Effects:

  • Increased inflammation or allergies

  • Reduced collagen production

  • Changes in sense of smell

Factors That Affect Estrogen Levels

• Natural Life Stages:

  • Puberty

  • Pregnancy

  • Postpartum/breastfeeding

  • Perimenopause & menopause

  • Aging

  Health Conditions:

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

  • Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI)

  • Thyroid disorders

  • Diabetes

  • High blood pressure

  Lifestyle & Environmental Factors:

  • Poor nutrition

  • Chronic stress

  • Sedentary lifestyle or lack of exercise

  • Exposure to toxins (pesticides, heavy metals, endocrine disruptors)

  • Excess alcohol or smoking

  Medical Treatments:

  • Certain medications (e.g., hormonal therapy, antibiotics, NSAIDs)

  • Surgical removal of ovaries (oophorectomy)

  Other Factors:

  • Body weight (very low or high body fat affects estrogen)

  • Aromatase activity (conversion of androgens to estrogen in fat tissue)

Supporting Healthy Estrogen

• 1. Nutrition & Diet

  • Phytoestrogen-rich foods: Flaxseeds, soy, chickpeas, lentils – may gently support estrogen balance

  • Leafy greens & colourful vegetables: Provide antioxidants that protect estrogen function

  • Healthy fats: Omega-3s from fish, chia, flax – support hormone production

  • Protein & B vitamins: Aid hormone metabolism and energy production

  2. Lifestyle & Physical Activity

  • Regular exercise: Strength training, walking, yoga, and HIIT improve hormone regulation

  • Maintain healthy body weight: Body fat influences estrogen production via aromatase activity

  • Stress management: Chronic stress increases cortisol, which can reduce estrogen activity

  • Prioritize sleep: Deep, restorative sleep supports hormone production and balance

  3. Supplements (With Professional Guidance)

  • Magnesium: Supports hormone metabolism

  • CoQ10: Supports energy production in cells

  • Vitamin D: Supports hormone receptor activity and bone health

  • Berberine: May enhance mitochondrial function and estrogen balance

  4. Minimize Environmental & Lifestyle Stressors

  • Reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors (plastics, pesticides, heavy metals)

  • Limit alcohol, smoking, and processed foods that negatively affect estrogen

  • Avoid unnecessary pharmaceutical drugs when possible (consult your doctor)

  5. Hormone Monitoring & Medical Support

  • Periodic hormone testing helps track changes in estradiol, progesterone, and other key hormones

  • Work with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized support

Summary:
Estrogen influences over 400 functions in the female body. Maintaining balanced levels helps energy, mood, metabolism, bone strength, and overall health. Monitoring and supporting your hormones is key to feeling your best throughout life.

This blog is intended for educational purposes only