• Estrogen is a crucial hormone with significant effects on the body.
• Low or high levels of estrogen can have serious implications on your health.
• Many natural means, including diet changes, exercise, and herbal remedies, can improve estrogen levels.
• Medical approaches such as Hormone Replacement Therapy can help manage estrogen levels.
• Lifestyle habits, such as smoking cessation, can also impact estrogen levels.
It’s all about balance, isn’t it? Especially when we’re talking health and hormones. Today, we dive into the world of estrogen. Does the name sound familiar to you? Well, as the primary female hormone, estrogen is essential in our bodies. But what if it’s not at the right levels?
Let’s explore together. We’ll look at why estrogen is important and what it means when levels are too low or too high. Of course, we’ll also talk about how to increase estrogen naturally. Medical ways to manage these levels will also be covered, like Hormone Replacement Therapy. Ready to make well-informed choices for your health? Let’s go!
Did you know?
Did you know estrogen is not just one thing? It’s actually a group. This group contains similar hormones such as estradiol. That one’s the most powerful and abundant in our bodies. Why should we care? Because keeping these hormones in balance is crucial to our health.
Estrogen isn’t just a ‘women’s hormone’. It’s actually important for everyone. For example, it helps control cholesterol and keep bones healthy. It’s also essential for the reproductive system to work well. Bottom line is, we all need enough estrogen for our bodies to function at their best.
Low estrogen can disturb how your body works. Symptoms range from mood changes and tiredness to brittle bones and hot flashes. Let’s learn more about the effects of low estrogen.
Symptoms of Low Estrogen
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood shifts
• Tiredness
• Pain during sex because of dryness in the vagina
• Irregular periods
• Weight gain, mainly around the belly
• Broken or weak bones
• Problems with focus
• Dry skin
Just like having too little estrogen can be an issue, so can having too much. Extra estrogen can make us feel bloated or cause weight gain and periods that aren’t regular. So it’s not about getting as much estrogen as possible – it’s about balance.
Phytoestrogens which are plant-based estrogens, are present in many human foodstuffs, including fruits (plum, pear, apple grape berries), vegetables (beans, sprouts, cabbage, spinach, soybeans, grains, hops, garlic, onion), wine, tea, and they have been identified in a number of botanical dietary supplements.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Low estrogen levels can be a concern. If you are searching for ways on how to increase estrogen levels naturally, there are many that might help you get your estrogen levels up.
Estrogen rich foods and diet are so important when it comes to hormones. Foods can even mimic estrogen in the body. They do this through something called phytoestrogens.
Phytoestrogens are molecules derived from plants. Your body views them as very similar to the estrogen you make. That’s why eating them can help deal with symptoms of low estrogen levels
Foods High in Phytoestrogens:
• Flaxseed
• Soybeans
• Tofu
• Garlic
• Celery
• Carrots
• Potatoes
• Rice
• Wheat
• Red Clover
• Sweet Potatoes
How Do Phytoestrogens Help with Health?
Phytoestrogens can bind to estrogen cell receptors, possibly affecting estrogen throughout your body. However, while some research links high levels of phytoestrogens to hormone imbalance, most studies show they’re good for your health.
Want a diet that promotes healthy estrogen levels? Here are some easy tips:
Do’s:
• Add foods rich in phytoestrogens like flax seeds and soy products to your meals.
• Eat plenty of fruits, beans, seeds, and vegetables.
Don’ts:
• Cut back on processed foods and sweet treats.
• Limit coffee and alcohol.
To boost estrogen, it’s not just about what foods you eat. It’s also about meeting your nutritional needs. This helps keep your hormones in balance. Here are some of the vitamins to increase estrogen levels:
Even though exercise is good for hormone balance, it’s sometimes hard to find a balance. Healthy workouts are good. But working out too much can decrease estrogen.
Estrogen levels change according to your menstrual cycle, which tends to be irregular during perimenopause and non-existent after menopause. Supplementing estrogen might be essential even during and after menopause as low levels or absence may lead to hot flashes and mood changes commonly reported in this stage of life.
Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
Back to nature! There are many herbs that act like estrogen in the body. They can help with low estrogen symptoms.
Finally, before we move to the more medical parts of managing estrogen levels, let’s talk lifestyle choices.
Our next table sums up why and how to increase estrogen levels, its symptoms, the foods and the overall solutions.
| Why Increase Estrogen? | Symptoms of Low Estrogen | Foods with Phytoestrogens | Overview of Remedies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Estrogen is crucial for various bodily functions | Hot flashes, fatigue, brittle bones, etc | Flaxseeds, Soy products, Garlic, and more | Dietary changes, exercises, herbal remedies, lifestyle changes |
An edocrinologist is the specialist who can help evaluate the cause of derranged levels of estrogen hormone and suggest the required treatment. there are many products in market that claim to increase the levels of reproductive hormones, never ever try any hormonal preparation without a doctor’s prescription.
Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Natural ways are good. But it is highly recommended to consult a doctor. For things like menopause-related symptoms or more serious cases of low estrogen, medical treatment can be the only option.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an option. This is when you take artificial hormones to replace the ones you lack. But also consider the possible side effects of estrogen replacement therapy. Always go with medical advice.
If you no longer have a uterus, your doctor may suggest Estrogen-predominant HRT. This is because unfiltered exposure to estrogen could lead to endometrial hyperplasia and other problems.
Sometimes, low estrogen is due to another health condition. It becomes key to treat the root cause in these cases. It may be kidney disease, hypothyroidism, or any other condition that disrupts hormonal balance.
The following table will help you know when to seek medical help, the possible treatments and risks to consider.
| When to Consider Medical Intervention | Potential Treatments | Risks and Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| In severe cases of estrogen deficiency or underlying medical conditions | Hormone Replacement Therapy, Estrogen Therapy | Should be under medical supervision due to possible side effects |
So, what did we learn from our guide? Estrogen is critical to our bodies. Its roles are many and its impact on our health and everyday life is significant. But it’s all about balance. Through proper nutrition, a healthy lifestyle, herbal remedies or medical treatment if required, managing estrogen levels is possible. Remember, your path towards balanced estrogen should be careful and focused on overall health.
Also Read: What Causes High Estrogen Levels: A Comprehensive Explanation Based on Research
Start with a healthy lifestyle. Eat well, include phytoestrogen-rich foods, and exercise. You might also try herbal remedies or hormone therapy if needed. It is important to consult a doctor and not self manage.
Foods like flaxseeds, soy products, fruits, vegetables, and certain herbs are full of phytoestrogens. They may boost your estrogen levels.
Signs of low estrogen are hot flashes, fatigue, pain during sex, irregular periods, weight gain around the belly, weak bones, problems focusing, and dry skin.
Try natural methods like balancing your diet, live healthily, and considering herbal supplements. Always talk to a healthcare provider about the best suited medical treatments.
To naturally increase estrogen levels after pregnancy, focus on a balanced diet rich in phytoestrogen-containing foods such as flaxseeds, soy products, and legumes. Regular exercise and adequate sleep also contribute to hormonal balance. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
To boost estrogen levels in females, incorporate estrogen-rich foods like flaxseeds, soy, and fruits into your diet. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress can also contribute to hormonal balance. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
To flush out excess estrogen, focus on a fiber-rich diet with cruciferous vegetables, stay hydrated, and engage in regular exercise to support liver function. Incorporating natural detoxifiers like green tea may also aid in promoting hormonal balance.
Estrogen, a key female sex hormone, regulates the development of female reproductive organs, supports the menstrual cycle, and plays a crucial role in bone health. Additionally, estrogen influences various physiological processes, including mood, cardiovascular health, and skin integrity.
Soy milk contains compounds called phytoestrogens, which are plant-based substances that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. However, the levels of phytoestrogens in soy milk are much lower than the estrogen found in the human body, and their impact on hormonal balance is generally considered minimal when consumed in moderation.
Vitamin D may have a regulatory effect on estrogen levels by influencing its synthesis and metabolism. Adequate vitamin D levels can support hormonal balance, including estrogen, but the relationship is complex and varies among individuals.
Fenugreek contains compounds that may have estrogen-like effects and could potentially contribute to a modest increase in estrogen levels in females. However, more research is needed to establish the extent of this effect and its implications for hormonal balance.
Red clover contains compounds called isoflavones that mimic estrogen in the body, potentially leading to a modest increase in estrogen levels. However, its impact on hormonal balance may vary, and individuals should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using it as a supplement.
Black cohosh contains compounds that may interact with estrogen receptors, influencing hormonal activity. While it is often used to address symptoms associated with hormonal changes, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on estrogen levels, and consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable.
Diindolylmethane (DIM), found in cruciferous vegetables, may help balance estrogen levels by promoting the conversion of stronger forms of estrogen into weaker forms. However, its specific impact on estrogen levels can vary, and it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using DIM supplements.
Estrogen is associated with maintaining sexual health and can contribute to a healthy sex drive in women. However, the relationship between estrogen and sex drive is complex, influenced by various factors, and individual responses may vary.
Yes, milk from pregnant cows contains small amounts of naturally occurring hormones, including estrogen. However, the levels are significantly lower than the hormones produced naturally in the human body, and the impact on human health is generally considered minimal.
Yes, estrogen is commonly available in oral forms, such as pills or tablets, for hormone replacement therapy. However, the method of administration may vary based on the specific estrogen formulation and individual medical considerations.
Yes, estrogen and progesterone are often prescribed together in hormone replacement therapy for women, especially those undergoing menopause. The combination helps balance hormonal levels and reduce symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuations.
Yes, low estrogen levels, particularly during menopause, can lead to changes in the vaginal environment, making it more susceptible to yeast infections. Estrogen helps maintain the acidity and balance of the vaginal flora, and a decrease in its levels can contribute to an increased risk of yeast infections.
Yes, low estrogen levels, commonly seen during certain phases of the menstrual cycle or during menopause, can contribute to headaches. Hormonal fluctuations affect blood vessels and neurotransmitters, potentially triggering headaches in some individuals.
Yes, men naturally produce estrogen, but in smaller amounts compared to women. Estrogen in men plays a role in maintaining bone density, supporting cardiovascular health, and contributing to reproductive function.
Masturbation itself does not directly increase estrogen levels. Estrogen is primarily regulated by hormonal processes within the body, and its levels are not significantly affected by sexual activity, including masturbation.
Elevated estrogen levels may manifest as irregular menstrual cycles, breast tenderness, and mood swings. Consulting a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and management is advisable.
Signs of low estrogen in women include irregular menstrual cycles, vaginal dryness, and increased mood fluctuations. Consulting a healthcare provider is essential for proper evaluation and management.
No, women typically have higher estrogen levels than testosterone. While both hormones are present in both genders, the balance differs, with estrogen being the primary sex hormone in females and testosterone in males.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
It’s time to Upglam yourself!
Upglam is a personal care brand that prioritises the needs of each and every skin type. One of India’s foremost brands, Upglam, has been making waves since its foray into the self-care market. The brand offers a diverse range of body, hair and skincare products that are suited for everyone, as these are crafted by experts.
Upglam ensures the highest degree of wellness for people by sourcing the best quality ingredients, which are then further approved by experts. Each product is free from toxins and harsh chemicals and is absolutely safe to use on the skin. It caters to the specific needs of Indian skin types.
Let us explore the beautiful world of Upglam by reading below.
Every day can be a good skin & hair day
No matter your age, skincare is always important. Skin is the largest organ of the body and its proper maintenance is crucial for overall health. Caring for your skin will retain your youthfulness for a longer period and it will also help manage certain future skin problems such as skin cancer, wrinkles and early signs of ageing.
Skincare needs not be complicated, expensive or time-consuming such as visiting the parlour regularly. A simple yet consistent skincare regime comprising healthy habits such as cleansing, moisturising, weekly exfoliation and tackling specific conditions is all you need to keep glowing on the outside.
Similarly, hair is a reflection of how healthy your life is. It is an important routine for all genders because dry, oily, frizzy or thinning hair not only affects your overall appearance but can also be difficult to manage on a daily basis. Hair, like the skin, is subject to a lot of dirt, chemicals and pollution. If hair is not managed correctly, an individual may end up facing a lot of trouble with respect to their hair, such as seborrheic dermatitis, alopecia or even premature greying.
Maintaining a simple yet sustainable hair care routine at home that involves basic products like shampoo, conditioner, leave-in products, serum and hair vitaliser not only keeps the hair and scalp healthy and nourished but also reduces unnecessary hair damage from heat styling or using excess chemicals.
Upglam is a special kind of personal care brand that wants you to embrace self-care naturally. It endeavours to make you feel great about yourself so that you feel empowered and confident to take on the world. Each ingredient that goes into every product creation has been handpicked carefully after extensive research to ensure maximum efficacy. Keeping in mind the delicacy of Indian skin types, Upglam has come up with its first line of skin and hair care products that are made with the most natural formulations. To give you a sneak preview of what Upglam has up its sleeves, here is a list of a few products:
1. Upglam Deep Nourishing Body Lotion
This product is made from key ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile and calendula. The product is a non-greasy formula made free from toxins and parabens. It is a cream-based product that makes the skin look plump, soft and healthy. It is a luxuriant body lotion that is suitable across skin types, even the most sensitive ones.
2. Upglam Cleansing and Purifying Neem Face Wash
A natural purifying face wash meant for every skin type; the glycerin present in the product deeply cleanses the skin but with utmost gentleness. The product is dermatologist tested, it is free from harsh chemicals and instead only contains 100% natural actives to purify the skin in a kind manner.
The cream has been made with vitamin E and Jojoba oil. The product is so light in texture that it gets immediately absorbed into the skin. The skin looks soft and dewy and remains well-protected from moisture loss. The moisturising cream promises intense hydration and it rejuvenates dry and dull-looking skin.
This shampoo gently cleanses the scalp and minimises the damage that is triggered by dandruff and dust from pollution. It rejuvenates weak hair and strengthens the hair strand, thereby improving the texture.
A natural and lightweight formula that protects the skin from sun damage, UV damage and free radicals. Its high SPF of 40 PA+++ and natural ingredients like aloe vera and almond oil make it perfect for all skin types. This lotion quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving a white cast, controls oil, hydrates the skin and provides a soft, mattifying finish. With Upglam Sunscreen Lotion, your skin will remain healthy and glowing, no matter the weather.
6. Upglam Cocoa Repair Body Butter
This product is designed to restore dull and dry skin, revealing its natural glow with 100% pure cocoa and shea butter. Its non-greasy, non-sticky formula penetrates deep into the skin to improve texture and elasticity. Use it daily for deeply moisturised, radiant skin. Pure cocoa butter seeps deep into the skin layers, while shea butter provides extra rich nourishment for soft and supple skin.
It is a paraben and soap-free blend of pure glycerin and natural oils, ideal for gentle yet thorough cleansing. Its natural almond oil and grapefruit extract gently cleanses your skin while leaving behind a subtle and refreshing fragrance. Its moisturising formula leaves your skin feeling incredibly soft and smooth, providing 24 hours of nourishing moisture.
Upglam is committed to offering you the best hair and skincare experience while maintaining affordability and quality. The brand makes daily pampering a rejuvenating and enjoyable experience worth looking forward to, even amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life. And what’s more, Upglam even offers you up to 30% discounts on products!
Also Read: Wrinkles on Face: Scientifically Proven Management Options
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Our body needs regular proportions of Vitamin D to absorb calcium and phosphorus, along with aiding in bone growth. Risking your body to adequate quantities of Vitamin D means helping in the onset of bone abnormalities such as fragile bones – Osteoporosis and soft bones – Osteomalacia.
Here are some symptoms of this vitamin that are observed in adults:
Stress fractures in hips, pelvic and leg regions.
Severe bone or muscle pain that makes it difficult to climb stairs or get up after sitting on the floor.
Fatigue, tiredness, aches and pains.
Doctors generally diagnose this deficiency by prescribing a blood test. Sometimes, they may even suggest you take a few X-rays to investigate overall bone health.
Sadly, most urban residents are Vitamin D deficient because:
We tend to spend humongous amounts of time indoors – either in our offices or at home.
Most of our tall skyscrapers block the natural sunlight.
Our cities experience dangerously high pollution levels.
Thankfully, this vitamin (also called the Sunshine Vitamin) is naturally produced by our skin when we expose it to sunlight. Alternatively, you can even up your vitamin D levels by consuming certain foods and supplements.
Next time you fret at the thought of spending some time in the basking glory of the morning sun, remember these benefits that this Vitamin could bless you with:
1. Fighting Depression
Every second person in our city today is fighting some form of depression. This vital vitamin helps to regulate mood and ward off depression. Most people who experience anxiety are known to have Vitamin D deficiency too.
2. Weight Loss
Many studies have proved that people who are trying to shed those extra pounds should add Vitamin D supplements to their diet. That’s because Vitamin D has an appetite-suppressing effect.
Along with this, Vitamin D is also known to help in treating autism, autoimmune disorders, neuromuscular diseases, etc.
3. Stronger Teeth
Good teeth make a good smile, no? Absolutely! And the most critical factor for our happy, healthy teeth is Vitamin D. As per research, people who lack vitamin D have problems with chipping teeth enamel, gaps, etc.
4. Mentally Sharp And Agile
Being forgetful, are you? If yes, then you need more Vitamin D. Vitamin D is known to boost memory function, information processing ability and much more. If you are unsure of your Vitamin D levels, speak to your doctor to be prescribed a blood test.
5. Boosts Overall Health
Vitamin D helps keep common colds, flu and germs away. Taking regular Vitamin D supplements can help to boost your immunity system to defend your body against infections and diseases.
6. Lean Abs
Want to lose weight but tired of trying different diets? You might want to start your day with a delicious glass of fresh orange juice (mind you, no juice box can replace fresh juice!). Orange juice is filled with the goodness of vitamin D. According to research, people who drink vitamin D-fortified orange juice; we’re able to lose weight successfully. However, stick to drinking one glass of juice a day.
7. Healthy Heart
Did you know lacking vitamin D or having deficient levels of vitamin D is a significant cause of heart trouble? If your family has a history of heart ailments, you might want to get your vitamin D levels checked ASAP! To avoid heart problems, ensure vitamin-D-rich foods are included in your diet.
8. Lustrous Hair
Growing old with a head full of hair without any bald patches is a dream come true. Vitamin D plays a significant role in determining good hair, i.e., it can help revive the hair follicles. This is true, especially in the case of male pattern baldness.
9. Risks of Cancer
Cancer is a deadly disease and unfortunately, we often overlook the nutritional status of the patient suffering from the disease. Lacking vitamin D is a common point in many cancer patients. It is best to get a test done if you have a family history of cancer.
Now, if you are thinking about how you should up your Vitamin D levels in this season when there is a dearth of sunlight, worry not! Here’s a list of essential food sources that help to increase Vitamin D levels naturally:
People with low levels of vitamin D may speak to their doctor about the nano vitamin D supplements. Your doctor can prescribe you the correct dose and duration for any vitamin D supplement that you may need.
Do not consume these in excess and be aware of a toxic condition called Hypervitaminosis D which is nothing but excessive Vitamin D in the body, a rare but serious condition.
People who suffer from Vitamin D toxicity generally experience:
Routine blood tests to check vitamin D levels can help you maintain them in a healthy range.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Ref
You have been on the treadmill for months now and the weighing scales don’t support your effort. Or have you been through the whole circle of fitness choices- Zumba, aerobics, Pilates and more and apart from dashed hopes and exhaustion there is nothing to show for it? Before you head off to sign up for another gym membership or you give in to the abject dejection and hang your fitness books forever, take a look at our compilation of seven exercises that work. Really.
No diet discussion for High Blood pressure is complete without talking about the DASH diet.
DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension.
This diet is relatively simple and involves:
Reducing the consumption of food items that are high in cholesterol, trans fats, and saturated fat.
Another favourite variation of the DASH diet is the DASH-Sodium diet. This diet refers to cutting the sodium intake per day (to about 2-3 teaspoons, 1500 milligrams). While this reduction doesn’t need to be immediate, you can gradually reduce the sodium intake till your body adjusts to this prescribed goal.
You can start by eating foods rich in potassium, fibre and protein and avoiding foods rich in sodium. You can make these dietary changes gradually under the supervision of your family and healthcare provider.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
Tips to adapt to the DASH diet:
Consult a dietician or doctor before you put yourself on a DASH diet. That’s because he/she will accurately be able to tell you what should be your calorie intake per day to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Simultaneously, specific foods that you need to avoid include:
Many doctors also recommend a Mediterranean Diet to keep blood pressure and heart ailments at bay.
Did you know that being physically active can help you keep your blood pressure in a safe range and also help you avoid heart disease and stroke? You can club a healthy diet with regular physical activity to keep your blood pressure in check.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Some common traits of this diet include:
Many attribute the benefits of this diet as the sole reason for a low rate of heart diseases in the Mediterranean countries. However, the American Heart Association suggests that further studies and experiments need to be conducted to quantify the benefits of this diet.
Keep a track
Many dieticians also suggest tracking how many calories you are eating and drinking per day. Write down whatever you consume each day, this also includes jotting down the portion sizes. It is said that this is one of the best ways to enlighten yourselves about much you are consuming. On the basis of this analysis, you can then work out a plan – on reducing the calorie count and the portion size and finally your blood pressure too!
Also Read: Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Causes & Diagnosis
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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