Hot flashes or trouble sleeping Changes in mood or moodiness Changes in sexual function or decreased fertility Altered cholesterol levels
There are many conditions that can cause symptoms such as hot flashes, loss of libido, and other symptoms associated with low estrogen levels. Do not assume that estrogen levels are the cause of your symptoms. Consult with your doctor before starting any treatment to increase your estrogen, including taking natural or herbal supplements.
You should tell your doctor about any medications and supplements you are taking before having the test done. You should also inform your doctor about any hormonal contraceptive you use, as this could affect your test. You should discuss medical conditions including thyroid disease, sex-dependent hormone tumors, ovarian cysts, and unusual vaginal bleeding with your doctor, as they could affect your FSH levels. [2] X Research source The FSH test is usually drawn on the second or third day of your period. There are three types of estrogen; estrone, estradiol, and estriol. [3] X Research source Estradiol is the type of estrogen that is normally measured with testing, and a normal range is 30-400 pg/mL for premenopausal women (depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle) and 0-30 pg/mL for postmenopausal women. [4] X Research source Levels lower than 20 pg/mL may cause hormonal symptoms such as hot flashes. The value of checking estrogen levels is controversial, as levels fluctuate widely throughout the day. However, it can be helpful in conjunction with a physical exam, history, and other testing.
However, if you have a uterus, you should not allow anyone to start supplementing you with estrogen only. Taking estrogen alone, without progesterone, increases the risk of uterine cancer.
Athletes may experience a drop in estrogen levels. This is because women with low levels of body fat have more trouble producing estrogen. If you are an athlete or have low body fat levels, see your doctor for a good way to replenish your estrogen. [8] X Research source
Edamame Miso, in small amounts Soy nuts Tempeh Textured Soy Product (TSP), or foods made from textured soy flour.
For example, instead of white flour, opt for whole grain flour. Use whole grain pasta or brown rice.
Use organic coffee. Most coffee is a heavily sprayed crop, so drinking organic coffee should reduce your exposure to herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers. Use unbleached filters. Many white coffee filters contain bleach that can leach out into the final product, so try to find unbleached coffee filters for a safer brew. Consume coffee and other caffeinated beverages in moderation. You should not consume more than 400mg of caffeine per day, and you should aim to consume much less than that on average. [13] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Chasteberry has been shown to influence estrogen levels. [15] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source However, the exact nature and level of the effect has not been widely established. [16] X Research source Avoid taking chasteberry if you are using: birth control pills, antipsychotic drugs, medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease, or Metoclopramide, a dopamine-affecting drug.
legumes: soybeans, peas, pinto and lima beans fruits: cranberries, prunes, apricots herbs: oregano, sage, licorice whole grains flaxseed vegetables: broccoli and cauliflower
Black and green tea. Black and green teas contain phytoestrogens. [20] X Research source Dong quai (Angelica sinensis). Used in Chinese traditional medicine, this herb may reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Do not use it if you use blood-thinning drugs like warfarin. Red clover. Red clover contains isoflavones, which may help reduce symptoms of menopause or premenstrual syndrome.
Adding flax seed to your breakfast cereal or in healthy smoothies is a good way to easily eat the seed.
