Understanding Estrogen Dominance

Hormones act as messengers in the body, orchestrating countless functions to keep you feeling balanced, energised, and healthy. But when one hormone, such as estrogen, becomes too dominant in relation to others, it can disrupt this balance and affect how you feel. This is known as estrogen dominance.

For many, the signs can start subtly. You might notice heavier periods, bloating, or mood swings that seem more intense. Perhaps your sleep has become unsettled, or you’ve gained weight, particularly around your hips and thighs. These changes are often a sign that your body is dealing with an imbalance between oestrogen and progesterone, calling for a little extra care and attention.

What Causes Estrogen Dominance?

Several factors can lead to estrogen dominance, and the causes often vary from person to person.

1. Chronic Stress
   Stress encourages your body to prioritise producing cortisol, the stress hormone, which often reduces the amount of progesterone available. This imbalance allows estrogen to dominate.

2. Exposure to Xenoestrogens
   Xenoestrogens are synthetic chemicals that mimic estrogen. They’re found in plastics, personal care products, and even pesticides. These compounds can increase the body’s estrogen load over time.

3. Liver Overload
   Your liver is responsible for processing and removing excess estrogen. When it’s burdened by alcohol, processed foods, or environmental toxins, its ability to clear estrogen efficiently can be compromised.

4. Gut Imbalances
   A healthy gut is essential for eliminating estrogen. If your gut microbiome is out of balance, estrogen that should be excreted can be reabsorbed into the body.

5. Excess Body Fat
   Fat cells produce estrogen, so carrying excess weight can contribute to higher estrogen levels.
   
   
   

How Does Estrogen Dominance Affect the Body?

When estrogen levels are too high, the effects can be far-reaching, impacting multiple systems in the body:

Reproductive Health: Heavy, irregular, or painful periods are common, as are conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.

Digestive Health: Bloating, sluggish digestion, or discomfort can arise due to estrogen’s effects on the gut.

Mental Health: Anxiety, mood swings, and sleep disturbances are often linked to estrogen dominance.

Metabolism: Weight gain, particularly around the hips and thighs, can become more pronounced and harder to shift.

Cardiovascular Health: High oestrogen levels can increase the risk of blood clotting and cardiovascular strain

Steps to Restore Balance

Rebalancing estrogen levels can be done through small, intentional changes that can make a significant difference. Here are some simple steps to get started:

1. Support Liver Health

Include cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale in your diet to help your liver process estrogen.

Stay well-hydrated and consider adding lemon to your water for added detox support.

1. Reduce Xenoestrogen Exposure

Swap plastic containers for glass or stainless steel.

Choose natural, non-toxic personal care and cleaning products.

1. Nourish Your Gut

Add fermented foods like sauerkraut or kefir to your diet.

Increase your fibre intake to support the elimination of excess estrogen.

1. Manage Stress

Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or simply spending time in nature to reduce cortisol levels.

1. Prioritise Sleep

Aim for 7–9 hours of restorative sleep each night to allow your body to repair and reset.

Estrogen dominance can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a certified nutritionist and hormone health coach, I specialise in helping women regain balance through tailored nutrition and lifestyle strategies. Together, we can uncover the root causes of your symptoms and create a plan that’s as unique as you are.

If you’re ready to feel empowered and in control of your hormonal health, let’s chat. Reach out to book a consultation or learn more about how I can support you on your journey to balance. 

Your body is speaking to you—let’s work together to help it thrive.

Jessie.