Oestrogen and Lipoedema: Natural Oestrogen Suppliers
The role of oestrogen in lipoedema´s exacerbation of symptoms is pivotal. For that reason, it is key to maintain your oestrogen levels on balance (ERa and ERb). As all we know, most lipoedema patients are women and oestrogen levels change during puberty and menstrual period (periods of hormonal changes), but it dips drastically during menopause, so lipoedema symptoms might increase complicating the condition. Balancing estrogen levels naturally can be approached through diet, lifestyle changes, and certain supplements (when prescribed) that support your body’s hormone balance effectively and safely.
Balancing oestrogen: What is Oestrogen?
It is a hormone (seen in women and men) produced in more quantity in female bodies. The ovaries, adrenal glands and fat tissues produce this hormone in women. It has a key role in:
- Fat accumulation and distribution
- Sexual and reproductive health
- Cognitive health
- Bone health
- The function of the cardiovascular system
- Central nervous system
- Cholesterol levels
- Blood sugar levels
- Bone and muscle mass
- Circulation and blood flow
- Collagen production and moisture in your skin
- Brain function, including your ability to focus
What are the signs of oestrogen imbalance?
Some of the main symptoms are:
- Weight gain, specially in belly and lower part of the body
- Uneven fat accumulation
- Dry skin
- Tender breasts
- Changes in bone density (weakness)
- Lack of focus
- Mood changes
- Irritability
- Vaginal dryness
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Irregular periods or no periods
- Headaches before or during your period
- Decreased sex drive
- Painful intercourse
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
What causes oestrogen imbalance?
Main causes are:
- Age. Estrogen levels decrease during menopause.
- Eating disorders (bulimia and anorexia) deprive your body of nutrients needed for hormonal production and balance.
- Genetic conditions.
- Autoimmune diseases.
- Premature menopause (ovarian insufficiency).
- Cancer treatment in ovaries.
- Pituitary gland conditions. Your pituitary gland secretes hormones that tell your ovaries to start making estrogen, if not there will be imbalances.
- Hypothalamic amenorrhea. If your body is stressed your brain doesn’t release enough of the hormone that activates estrogen production in your ovaries.
Balancing Oestrogen Naturally: Natural Oestrogen Suppliers
Start a high phytoestrogen diet
Incorporate foods high in phytoestrogens. They are plant compounds that mimic estrogen in the body, the most known are:
- Flaxseeds. They contain lignans, polyphenols- a type of phytoestrogen, that may aid estrogen metabolism. This seed is also linked to lower cancer risk. Use it in all your preparations like smoothies, salads, bread, cookies, etc.
- Soy derived products. For example tofu, edamame, tempeh, soy milk, etc., are rich in isoflavones (phytoestrogen). It is a good substitute for meat for vegan or vegetarian people. Soy also reduces risk of prostate and breast cancer. Include it to your meals as preferred.
- Peaches. High in lignans (polyphenols), but remember they are high in fructose (fruit sugar), so eat them with moderation.
- Cruciferous and green vegetables. High in phytoestrogens and have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. Consume them daily to lower inflammation related diseases and chronic conditions.
- Fruits. Berries, pomegranates and apples also have these compounds.
- Legumes. Also a phytoestrogen provider that can replace meats in some types of diets. (always advised by a nutritionist).
- Nuts: Pistachios, almonds, cashews, peanuts. Great also for heart health. They are also high in Omega 3 fats and can be consumed daily, but with moderation.
- Sesame seeds. You can add it to any of your meals. High in antioxidants, they also improve your cholesterol levels and reduce risk factors for chronic conditions.
- Garlic. A super food. it helps to balance oestrogen; in addition, it lowers cholesterol, reduces blood pressure, prevent clots and reduce bone loss related to age).
- Whole grains. Oats, barley, and wheat germ are great sources of lignans.
Balancing oestrogen: lifestyle changes
- Keep your cortisol in line (stress hormone). Stress disrupts oestrogen and body balance, causing chronic inflammation. To contrast it, you can include in your daily life activities like, meditation, mindfulness, walk in nature, relaxing activities you enjoy.
- Healthy weight. Underweight and overweight can negatively impact oestrogen production and balance, remember your fatty tissues store part of your oestrogen (more fat, more place to store and vice versa).
- Exercise. Aerobic exercises and strength exercises, which have been shown to help boost estrogen levels and overall hormone health.
- Avoid smoking, which can reduce estrogen levels and is dangerous for your overall health.
- Sleep well. It supports your hormone regulation.
A final word
Oestrogen is a cornerstone hormone for lipoedema patients, keeping it in balance can release symptoms and avoid progression. The incorporation of phytoestrogen rich food and lifestyle changes will improve your oestrogen levels and overall health.
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
References:
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2022.951186/full
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22354-low-estrogen
