How to Lower Estrogen in Men? A Guide to Find the Right Balance
Testosterone is commonly known as the male sex hormone, while Estrogen is referred to as the female sex hormone.|
However, it is important to know that both genders possess these hormones, albeit in varying proportions.
Estrogen and Testosterone can easily be thought of as opposite forces.
But in reality, they have a complex yet balancing relationship that impacts overall health, extending beyond the reproductive system.
An imbalance in either of these hormones can lead to various physiological and psychological issues.
This also holds true for Estrogen, as excessive levels of this hormone can pose serious problems in men, sexual and otherwise.
As a result, individuals may seek information on how to lower Estrogen in men.
Read on to explore the Estrogen excess impact among males and effective strategies for controlling the levels.
Understanding the impact of Estrogen and its excess in men
In men, the primary role of Estrogen is to regulate and modulate libido, erectile function, and the production of sperm cells (spermatogenesis).
However, its influence is not limited to these functions alone.
Estrogen hormones also play a vital role in various other systems within the body, including the brain, skeletal system, cardiovascular system, metabolism, and liver.
Excessive Estrogen levels can impact men in several ways.
These are the common experiences associated with elevated levels of Estrogen.
- Decreased sex drive
- Incidences of Erectile dysfunction
- Infertility issue
- Mood swings
- Increased body fat because of metabolic dysregulation.
- Depression problem
- Overdevelopment of breast tissue (gynecomastia) in severe cases.
These symptoms can significantly impact a man’s quality of life, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
What causes Estrogen levels to increase
Various factors can lead to lower Estrogen in men.
These can include:
Natural aging
Natural aging in men has been linked to a change in hormone proportions.
As they age, there is an increase in the Estrogen to Androgen ratio, which signifies a rise in Estrogen levels.
Alcohol abuse
Chronic alcohol consumption can have lasting impacts on liver function, which can, in turn, impact hormone levels.
It is possible to observe a fall in Testosterone levels and a rise in Estrogen levels with prolonged alcohol use.
A decrease in Testosterone and an increase in Estrogen levels may be observed with chronic use of alcohol.
High-fat diet
Individuals who consistently consume a diet high in fat are more susceptible to weight gain over time.
It is possible to observe a fall in Testosterones and a rise in Estrogens with prolonged alcohol use.
Tumors
Dysregulation of hormones in the body can be associated with certain types of tumors.
Testicular tumors, Sertoli cell tumors, and adrenal tumors, for example, can contribute to an increase in Estrogen levels.
Strategies to lower Estrogen in men
There are a number of ways Estrogen can be brought down in men.
However, considering the complexity of hormone regulation, an expert must be consulted to inquire about how to lower Estrogen in men.
Here are a few ways to achieve lower Estrogen in men:
Aromatase Inhibitor treatment
Aromatase inhibitors lower Estrogen in men by inhibiting the conversion of Testosterone to Estrogen.
Anastrozole is an FDA Approved Aromatase Inhibitor treatment for male Gynecomastia.
Hormone therapy
If individuals are experiencing severe symptoms of Estrogen deficiency, it is recommended that they consult with a doctor to develop an appropriate course of action.
In such instances, a doctor may recommend hormone therapy if they believe it necessary to restore and balance the disrupted hormone levels.
Alternate solutions
There are some non-medical approaches to help lower Estrogen in men.
Some of them may include:
Reduce alcohol intake
As mentioned earlier, long-term alcohol consumption can affect Estrogen levels.
Therefore, quitting alcohol can be beneficial in lowering Estrogen levels.
Increase physical activity
Regular exercise can manage BMI, which is associated with an increase in Estrogen levels.
Avoid high-fat diet
High-caloric-density meals can cause a rise in Estrogen levels.
Individuals aiming to control their Estrogen levels should keep their fat intake in check.
Avoid environmental Estrogens
There are certain substances that exhibit Estrogen-like activity and are widely present in the environment.
Avoiding these elements can help lower Estrogen in men.
Below mentioned are the elements which contain Estrogen:
- Animal-derived products like meat, eggs, and dairy from animals treated with external hormones tend to have higher levels of Estrogen
- Some synthetic chemicals such as pesticides, plastics, surfactants, and detergents contain Xenoestrogens, a type of Estrogen
Foods to avoid
Phytoestrogens is a form of Estrogen found in food items that contain the compounds Polyphenols, Flavonoids, and Isoflavonoids.
- Polyphenols can be found in red wine and the skin of grapes
- Flavonoids are present in citrus fruits, juices, parsley, celery, kale, broccoli, chocolate, green tea, lettuce, apples, beans, apricots, cherries, and berries
- Isoflavones are found in soybeans, legumes, clover, alfalfa, and spinach
Foods to add
Certain food items are associated with Estrogen-reduction activity.
Individuals can consider adding below items to their diet:
Mushrooms
Compounds found in oyster mushrooms have the potential to inhibit aromatase, an enzyme responsible for converting Testosterone to Estrogen.
This inhibition could lead to a reduction in Estrogen levels within the body.
Turmeric
Curcumin, a yellow polyphenolic pigment, is found in turmeric.
A study indicated the ability of Curcumin to reduce Estrogen levels.
However, it is important to note that the evidence to support this is limited.
Add cruciferous vegetables to your diet
Indole-3-carbinol derived from the breakdown of glucobrassicin is associated with anti-estrogen activity.
This compound can be obtained from cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower.
Summary
Estrogen hormones play a crucial role in regulating the reproductive system, as well as supporting the brain, skeletal system, cardiovascular system, and liver functions.
Rise and fall in Estrogen levels can result in several health issues in men.
Excess Estrogen can lead to reduced libido, Erectile Dysfunction, infertility, mood swings, and even the development of breast tissue in men.
Medical interventions for reducing Estrogen levels may involve using aromatase inhibitors, which can inhibit the conversion of Testosterone to Estrogen.
Making certain lifestyle changes, such as engaging in regular exercise, abstaining from alcohol, and avoiding a high-fat diet, can also help lower Estrogen in men.
Including ingredients like turmeric, mushrooms, and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage in the diet may have anti-estrogen effects.
However, it is essential to note that the effectiveness of these alternative methods is supported by limited evidence.
Given the complexity of the hormone regulation process, it is crucial to consult with a medical expert before adopting any strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a man lower Estrogen levels quickly?
Lowering Estrogen levels quickly in men can be challenging, as it typically requires a comprehensive approach and may take time. Medications such as aromatase inhibitors incorporating regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and adopting a balanced diet can regulate Estrogen levels.
How can men reduce Estrogen naturally?
To naturally lower Estrogen in men, it is helpful to sustain a healthy weight, incorporate cruciferous vegetables into the diet, restrict alcohol consumption, and minimize exposure to substances that mimic Estrogen. However, it should be noted that their effectiveness may be limited, and consulting a doctor is recommended for a more effective reduction.
What happens if Estrogen is high in males?
Elevated Estrogen levels in males can result in various symptoms and health concerns, including reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, gynecomastia (enlarged breasts), mood swings, and infertility. Seeking guidance from a medical professional is essential for appropriate evaluation and management.
What causes excess Estrogen in men?
Various factors, including age, obesity, hormonal imbalances, exposure to Estrogen-mimicking chemicals (such as pesticides and plastics), and specific medical conditions like testicular tumors or adrenal gland disorders, can contribute to an excess of Estrogen in men. An expert in the field can help you determine the exact root cause.
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