Is estrogen dominance really about having too much estrogen?

Not necessarily. The term estrogen dominance is commonly used in wellness discussions, but it isn't a standardized medical diagnosis. Sometimes the concern is an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone rather than an elevated estrogen level.

In this Wellness Bite, we explore:

• Estrogen and progesterone: Why their relationship matters and how hormone patterns change throughout life.
• Estrogen receptor sites: Why the effects of estrogen depend on receptor binding and the signals activated inside our cells, not just estrogen levels in the bloodstream.
• Soy and phytoestrogens: How plant compounds such as genistein and daidzein interact with estrogen receptors, and why their effects differ from those of the body's own estrogen.
• Flaxseed and lignans: How gut bacteria metabolize lignans into compounds that may influence estrogen signaling, while fiber supports normal digestive elimination.
• The gut-liver connection: The role of estrogen metabolism, the estrobolome, and the body's normal elimination pathways.
• Nutrients and herbs: A look at B vitamins, magnesium, vitex, red raspberry leaf, and traditional emmenagogue herbs

Hormonal health is more complicated than simply trying to lower estrogen. Understanding hormone signaling, metabolism, and your individual symptoms is a much more useful starting point.

Wellness Explained

Evidence-based wellness, explained simply.

Hosted by Sandy Jolles, MS, CNS, LDN.

Disclaimer: Wellness Explained is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or replace individualized medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional.