Why Estrogen Matters with Endometriosis and IBS

Estrogen Dominance

 
While estrogen dominance is not a true diagnosis, it refers to the overall imbalance of estrogen to progesterone in the body. When we have too much estrogen in relation to progesterone, we can have profound implications. In the context of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), estrogen dominance can exacerbate symptoms such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, and irregular bowel movements, due to its influence on gut motility and sensitivity.

And of course, estrogen dominance is intricately linked with endometriosis, as elevated estrogen levels can fuel the growth of endometrial tissue, worsening symptoms like pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility, thereby complicating the management of this condition. 

Beyond those, estrogen dominance results in many common symptoms, including:

• Brain fog
• PMS
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Reduced sex drive
• Weight gain (particularly in hips, midsection, thighs)
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Bloating
• Fibrocystic breasts
• Abnormal menstruation
• Fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Breast tenderness

So how do we address estrogen dominance?

Toxins found in food

The hormones in meat and dairy can mess with your own hormones. Pesticides used on plants are also common endocrine disruptors. I realize that organic is not always feasible for everyone, in which case I highly recommend at least following the Dirty Dozen when possible. I also encourage clients to follow a nutrition plan that minimizes processed foods, sugars, and alcohol, avoids conventional meat and dairy when possible, and focuses on eating the rainbow.

Chronic Stress

Chronic stress devours pregnenolone, a precursor for other hormones, to create cortisol. This destroys the balance of estrogen and progesterone, especially since as we age, progesterone is primarily produced in the adrenal glands. Addressing stress and finding relaxing outlets is one of the best things that you can do for your health as stress impacts almost every function within the body.

That stress piece can be VERY personal though, so while some may benefit from meditation, others may need a walk in nature, and others may need to just roll on the floor with a dog. Regardless, make it a goal to do something every single day for at least 20 minutes that calms the body and mind, even if you need to chunk it throughout the day.

Tap water

Public drinking water contains 45 hormone-disrupting chemicals. Yup, you read that right. And plastic bottles and cans also leach chemicals into the water, causing hormonal issues. Opt for filtered water out of a glass or stainless steel water bottle. Even this simple task can massively reducing your exposure to the dangers of industrial chemicals, their toxic byproducts, and pharmaceuticals.

Xenoestrogens

Xenoestrogens are endocrine disruptors that can mimic estrogen in the body which can block or bind to estrogen receptors in the body. When this happens, it typically raises the overall estrogen levels in the body which can result in estrogen dominance. That means avoiding BPA, red dye 3 (this one is especially bad), parabens, and phthalates. If you're on the hunt for nontoxic beauty or cleaning products, I really like Branch Basics and 100% Pure.

Impaired gut health

Poor digestion impairs your body's ability to rid itself of excess estrogen. This excess estrogen is then stored in fat, particularly around the midline. The best way to overcome an inflamed gut is through testing to identify WHAT is happening in your gut. While yes, everyone would benefit from following my above suggestions, we can't target things going on in your gut without that testing (and no, I don't suggest blanket probiotics for everyone).

Do you feel like you need more support around all of this? Sign up for a free introductory call so we can explore how we might be able to help you. 

And, if you're wanting something actionable right now, make sure to grab my free hypnosis audio for self love- the starting point for ALL healing.