Packed within cruciferous veggies are phytochemicals that block the production of estrogen, allowing them to be an effective addition to an
Broccoli is connected to hormone balance by its effect on how the body breaks down estrogen. Often we read that the body produces three estrogens: estrone, estradiol and estriol. While this is true, the dozens of estrogen metabolites the body creates as it breaks down these estrogens are often ignored.
Vegetables of the Brassica genus, such as broccoli, contain a phytochemical, which may shift estrogen metabolism and increase the 2:16 ratio.
Cruciferous or brassica vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussel sprouts, kale and bok choy. These vegetables contain high levels of phytochemicals, known as indoles, can help support the body's ability to convert oestrogen into waste products in the liver.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Aromatase inhibitors stop the body from making estrogen. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) block the action of estrogen on certain cells. Selective estrogen receptor downregulators (ERDs) block the action of estrogen on certain cells.
Carrots actually contain unique undigestible fibres to help detox excess estrogen from the body. Raw carrots have been found to help by preventing the reabsorption of estrogen from the intestine, meaning the liver can more effectively regulate metabolism.
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.
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.
Broccoli, broccoli sprouts, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, cauliflower, and bok choy are all known as cruciferous vegetables. These veggies help your liver metabolize estrogen. The plant sterols in avocados help regulate estrogen and progesterone, which can help regulate ovulation.
If your estrogen levels are too high or too low, then magnesium can help bring them back to stable levels, which will positively impact testosterone and progesterone.
What foods cause high estrogen? Foods that reportedly increase estrogen include flax seeds, soybean products, chocolate, fruit, nuts, chickpeas, and legumes. Before we delve into why these foods are said to increase estrogen, we need to look at two important definitions; phytoestrogens and lignans.
One study found that green tea consumption was linked to decreased levels of total estrogens. Catechins from green tea could act on aromatase by modulating the expression of CYP19 (aromatase) isoforms. This tea could also act on estrogen receptors and downplay the expression of this hormone.
DIM (Diindolylmethane/3,3′-Diindolylmethane) is among the most effective estrogen blockers found in nature. It occurs naturally in cruciferous plants such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and kale.
Bread which contains wholegrains, such as flax, rye, wheat, barley or oats, have naturally high levels of lignans, a kind of phytoestrogen, and depending on the concentration in an individual loaf, can be an excellent way to help boost estrogen levels through food.
Genes associated with follicle growth were not significantly altered by vitamin D3. However, it increases expression of genes involved in the estrogen-biosynthesis. Further, estrogen concentrations in porcine granulosa cell-cultured media increased in response to vitamin D3.
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.
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.