5 phytonutrients that can help you control your estrogens

5 Phytonutrients for Optimizing Estrogen Levels

The first area to look when addressing most if not all health concerns is foods! And this applies to hormones as well. Estrogen balance is so important for fertility, longevity, immune system balance and even affects our mood! Estrogen dominance is a common issue predominantly for women, however it can be for men as well. Here are five nutrients known to support healthy estrogen levels:

DIM

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a chemical compound or phytonutrient that is naturally found in certain cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and cauliflower. It is often used as a dietary supplement in cases of hyperestrogenism (i.e. too much estrogen). It is produced from the precursor compound indole-3-carbinol.

DIM has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, especially in relation to hormonal balance. DIM is believed to modulate estrogen metabolism in the body, which can have positive effects on hormonal health in both men and women.
The compound supports liver metabolism, and is known to support conversion of the “bad (i.e. inflammatory, cancer associated) metabolites of estrogens, 4-OH and 16-OH, into the “good” (ie anti inflammatory, cancer protective) metabolites, 2-OH, which are beneficial forms of these hormones.

This can help reduce symptoms of hyperestrogenism such as breast tenderness, mood changes before the menstrual period and ovulation, and premenstrual syndrome in general, but it also reduces the risk of hormone-dependent cancers such as breast cancer.
Studies combining DIM with indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane have found positive results with minimal side effects.

It also has other potential benefits: