With estrogen dominance increasing in our general population and it’s known link to the development of rampant cancers such as breast, cervical and endometrial cancer, I feel that this is an area I can address in most all patients. It is not uncommon for my female patients to show signs of estrogen dominance from an early age. Symptoms of estrogen dominance include but are not limited to…
• Early puberty
• Breast tenderness
• Acne
• Heavy or irregular periods
• Painful periods
• Weight gain
• Decreased metabolism
• Fatigue
• Infertility
• Migraines
• History of estrogen positive cancer; breast, cervical, uterine, and prostate
Besides the natural estrogen our body produces, we are exposed to exogenous forms of estrogen known as xenoestrogens. Xenoestrogens are ‘endocrine disruptors’ which are absorbed through the skin, the lungs, vaginal mucosa, and consumed orally. Xenoestrogens are fat soluble, which deposit and accumulate in fat tissue. Xenoestrogens strongly bind to estrogen receptors and turn into the toxic metabolite 16α-Hydroxyestrone, which increases cancer risk.
Limit exposure to harmful xenoestrogens by avoiding known contaminants such as…
• pesticides or herbicides
• bleached products (tampons, napkins, paper)
• PCB lined cans
• plastic water bottles and food containers
• PVC shower curtains
• non-organic fruits and vegetables
• hormone supplemented dairy and meat
• paraben containing cosmetics, hair products, and sunscreens;
• perfumes
• deodorizers
• dryer sheets
• fabric softeners
For more ways to decrease your estrogen load and continue on the goal, prevention of disease, contact Dr. Bridget to discuss your options. Let’s strive for health together.
Reference:
1. http://www.estrogendominanceguide.com/symptoms-of-estrogen-dominance-in-women
2. Spangler, L. Xenoestrogens and Breast cancer; No where to run. 1996 http://www.fwhc.org/health/xeno.htm
3. Mense, S., Remotti, F., Bhan, A., Singh, B., El-Tamer, M., Hei, T., and Bhat, H. Estrogen-Induced Breast Cancer: Alterations in Breast Morphology and Oxidative Stress as a Function of Estrogen Exposure. Toxicol Appl Pharmaco 2008: Oct 1: 232(1): 78-85; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=1864014