Vegetables of the Brassica genus, such as broccoli, contain a phytochemical, which may shift estrogen metabolism and increase the 2:16 ratio.
Apart from all the health benefits and nutrients, broccoli can also help in maintaining estrogen balance. Due to it's high possession of calcium, it also relieves women from premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which can trigger symptoms such as mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, irritability and depression.
Cruciferous vegetables contain a chemical called indole-3-carbinol, a chemical that may have anti-estrogen effects. This means that they could reduce estrogen levels in men. However, research has not directly shown that eating cruciferous vegetables reduces the levels of estrogen in the human body.
Cruciferous vegetables.
Broccoli, cauliflower, kale, collard greens, brussels sprouts, turnips, arugula and all the other wonderful, sulfur-rich foods in this plant family contain 3,3'-diindolymethane (DIM). DIM is chemoprotective, helps reduce high estrogen levels and supports phase 1 of estrogen detox in the liver.
May support hormonal balance. Brassica vegetables, like broccoli, contain a plant compound called indole-3-carbinol (I3C), which acts as a plant oestrogen and may help balance hormones by regulating oestrogen levels.
Two important compounds are abundant in broccoli: diindolylmethane (DIM) and its precursor, indole-3-carbinol (I3C), both of which can have an impact on the metabolism of estrogens. These two compounds have been associated with a reduction in cancer and tumor cell growth.
Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts are all part of the cruciferous vegetable family and are potential foods that regulate hormones. Like leafy greens, these vegetables also help process and remove excess estrogen from the body.
Research shows that avocados can help reduce the absorption of estrogen and boost testosterone levels. They also improve heart health and aid in satiety. We need enough healthy fats to make hormones, and avocados are a great source of hormone building blocks.
“Broccoli also has thiocyanates. This compound is very dangerous because it leads to hyperthyroidism, and due to which, you experience problems like weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, and a bloated face”, informs dietician and clinical nutritionist, Anshika Srivastava.
Research shows therapeutic levels are typically 50-75g of cruciferous vegetables (so not just broccoli but those listed above) with 2 daily meals. Add to this daily where possible 60g fresh broccoli sprouts which are a very concentrated source, available in health food stores and most supermarkets.
Tomatoes, kiwi, citrus fruits, cantaloupe, peaches, artichokes, bananas, asparagus, corn and cauliflower all boast great levels of vitamin C and they possess the phytoestrogen power you might be looking for to boost your estrogen.
Natural estrogen blockers:
Some examples of natural estrogen blockers include wild nettle root, maca, chrysin, and grape seed extract. These substances contain compounds that act as natural estrogen blockers and may be used to regulate the production of the hormone.
Another source of estrogen in foods is animal estrogen. Products like eggs or milk contain high estrogen levels because they are produced in parts of the animal's body that regulate its hormones. Eating high estrogen foods can help people who suffer from various conditions related to low estrogen levels.
Diet-related causes of elevated estrogen levels
Your overall diet can impact your hormone levels. Research shows that Western-type diets high in ultra-processed foods, added sugar, and animal foods (like red meat and eggs) are associated with high estrogen levels.
How can you re-balance your hormones and reduce estrogen? Certain foods can help shift excess estrogen out of your body: Grapefruits, lemons, limes – one serving daily. Broccoli, kale, sprouts, cauliflower, asparagus, spinach, celery, cabbage, beetroot – 2-3 serving daily.
Boiled eggs + avocado
Pair 2-3 boiled eggs with some avocado and garlic salt for the perfect, nourishing breakfast. Eggs contain fat and protein, avocado contains additional healthy fats, and garlic contains compounds that support healthy hormone metabolism and hormone balance.