Do you have excess estrogen? How would you know if you did? Here are some of the symptoms of excess estrogen

• abnormal weight gain

• mood swings.

• bloating.

• swelling and tenderness in your breasts.

• fibrocystic lumps in your breasts.

• decreased sex drive.

• irregular menstrual periods.

• increased symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

• headaches.
  

And here are some foods that can help counter this excess estrogen, along with why!

Soy

Soy and soybean-based foods such as tofu and edamame were once thought to increase estrogen levels, since they contain chemicals called phytoestrogens that act similarly to estrogen. (“Phyto” means it comes from plants.) However, when phytoestrogens bind to estrogen receptors, they don’t behave the same way that estrogen does. Instead of causing cancer cells to spread, phytoestrogens prevent proliferation by blocking estrogen from binding to the receptors. Plus, they shut down the enzymes that create estrogen, thus allowing soy to work as an antiestrogen.  

If you’re looking to add soy to your diet in order to boost antiestrogens, be sure to use whole food sources instead of supplements, as they have not been proven to have the same effects.

Citrus Fruits

In general, fruits and vegetables are often recommended for reducing the risk of breast cancer because they help with weight management, which is vital for preventing the cancer’s recurrence. But citrus fruits may be able to take things a step further. Fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits contain phytochemicals that can act as antiestrogens and target estrogen receptors, preventing the growth of cancer cells. 

Carrots

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.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Packed within cruciferous veggies are phytochemicals that block the production of estrogen, allowing them to be an effective addition to an anti-estrogen diet. This group of vegetables includes kale, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and arugula. 

You know how some of these veggies have a distinctive smell? That’s from a compound that can kill cancer cells, making them even more appealing for those who seek to reduce their risk of breast cancer through their diets. 

With love,

Val