How to Eliminate Estrogen Dominance

Estrogen dominance is defined as an excess amount of the hormone estrogen relative to the hormone progesterone. It can begin in the late 30s or early 40s as the body enters peri-menopause, a transitional phase that occurs before menopause. The body undergoes many changes and hormonal imbalances occur. This can cause many unpleasant physical and emotional symptoms. Dr. Christiane Northrup, a medical doctor and published author with a focus on women's health, offers several suggestions on how to break estrogen dominance and restore a hormonal balance.

Instructions

• 1

  Take a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement. Adequate amounts of all these vital nutrients can positively influence hormonal processes.

• 2

  Eat a healthy diet that promotes hormonal balance. Consume organic animal products; they do not contain the hormones of their conventionally-produced counterparts. Eat at least 35 grams of fiber daily. A high fiber diet helps excrete excess estrogen through the stool. Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, flaxseed, and soy products. These foods contain phytoestrogens, which are similar to estrogen in your body. The phytoestrogens will attach to receptors on your body's tissues before the regular estrogen can. This can help prevent side effects of excess estrogen.

• 3

  Try a 2% bioidentical progesterone cream. Dr. Northrup states this treatment can be very effective in relieving estrogen dominance. You should not use this product without talking to your doctor who can advise you if it is appropriate and how to properly use it.

• 4

  Exercise regularly and lose weight if necessary. Exercise lowers estrogen levels. Estrogen is produced and stored in your body fat. Excess body fat will contribute to estrogen dominance.