Why do physicians focus on Estrogen?

Estrogen is an important hormone yet it isn't the only hormone that decreases as we age. Thyroid hormones, growth hormones, DHEA, and testosterone all decline with age.

However, research has determined that estrogen affects other areas of the body not just the reproductive areas. Estrogen plays an important role in the production and maintenance of bone and it has demonstrated a protective role in heart health. It also has a positive influence on behavior and moods.

The metabolism of estrogen within the body is a complex subject. The simplified version is that it starts with cholesterol (see, cholesterol is important). Most of the cholesterol in your body is actually produced in your liver. Having a clean, well functioning liver is a good place to start for proper metabolism of estrogen and general good health because your liver is the clearing house for toxins (this doesn't mean you go out and do a liver cleanse. That's a whole other topic).

Estrogen metabolism is also dependent on other factors such as proper cellular levels of vitamins E and folic acid. There is also another subset of estrogen known as Phytoestrogens which are natural hormones found in plants that have a somewhat similar action to those of human estrogen. These are found in significant levels in soy and flaxseed. They have been known to reduce the symptoms of low estrogen without increasing the risk of certain cancers. Because of the risk factors involved in increasing estrogen or taking hormone replacement therapy, it is important that you spend time discussing your choices with your health care professional. As always, my reminder to you is to NOT self-diagnose and/or self-prescribe.