How Lifestyle Factors Impact Estrogen Levels and Cancer Risk

Estrogen is an essential hormone for physiological functions, from fertility and sexual health to bone health. Unfortunately, the ways in which estrogens are metabolized can have a significant impact on either increasing or decreasing our risk of breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers.

As such, it’s important to understand how lifestyle factors may influence these metabolic pathways and our risk. This article will discuss the impact of diet, weight, exercise, and supplements on estrogen metabolism and cancer risk.

Understanding Estrogen Metabolism Simplified

Estrogens, specifically estradiol and estrone, are typically transformed through two main processes. In simpler terms, these processes are called the “2-hydroxy” (2-OH) pathway or the “16α-hydroxy” (16α-OH) pathway. Each pathway has distinct advantages, but notably, the 2-OH pathway is believed to safeguard against breast and ovarian cancer. On the other hand, the 16α-OH pathway can increase the likelihood of these cancers.

Genetic variations, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), have a role to play in the way estrogens are metabolized. Yet, it’s crucial to note that how we live our lives can also influence how genes behave, thereby altering metabolism and risk levels.

Common Challenges with Estrogen Metabolism

Estrogen metabolism doesn’t function correctly for a lot of women, leading to a build-up of estrogens in the body. This excess estrogen may heighten the risk of cancers influenced by hormones, as well as other conditions such as:

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Causes an imbalance with progesterone.

Endometriosis

Results in more severe pain and bleeding.

Fibroids

Leads to severe symptoms like heavy periods and pelvic pain.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Causes irregular periods, ovarian cysts, weight gain, and excessive hair growth.

Estrogen-related Cancers

Estrogen’s role in promoting cell growth can contribute to tumor development if uncontrolled.

The good news is that there are lifestyle strategies you can use to improve estrogen metabolism and reduce your risk for hormone-driven health conditions.

Diet

Eating a diet rich in fiber, cruciferous vegetables, and omega-3 fats can help improve estrogen metabolism. Eating more plant sources of phytoestrogens, such as soybeans and flaxseeds, can also be beneficial. By helping the body to excrete estrogens, these dietary changes can help reduce cancer risk.

Weight

Excess weight can also increase estrogen levels and consequently put you at a higher risk for hormonally driven cancers. The best way to manage weight is by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep. By reducing body fat and increasing lean muscle mass, you can help your body to metabolize estrogens more efficiently.

Exercise

In addition to helping with weight management, exercise can positively impact estrogen metabolism. Aerobic activities such as running and cycling improve the excretion of hormones from the body. Strength training also helps to increase lean muscle mass and decrease body fat, which helps to improve estrogen metabolism.

Supplements

Some supplements, like DIM (diindolylmethane) and Calcium D-Glucarate, can aid in removing excess estrogens from your body. Plus, studies suggest that particular types of probiotics can help enhance the way your body processes estrogen.

Perfectly Balanced Health: The Functional Medicine Approach by Dr. Khan at Internal Healing and Wellness MD

Functional medicine embraces holistic healthcare, viewing the body as a fully connected system rather than isolated parts. This means we go beyond just looking at diet or exercise. We consider all factors and how they interact.

Using knowledge from genetic variations, lifestyle factors, and supplement use, functional medicine can accurately spot imbalances in the body. From there, we craft a tailored health plan to improve your wellness. This plan could include dietary adjustments, exercise routines, stress management techniques, and specific supplement recommendations. By seeing the bigger picture, Dr. Khan can help you achieve optimal health in a balanced and holistic way.

An informed understanding of how lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, weight management, and supplements influence estrogen metabolism enables women to make knowledge-based decisions. These decisions can potentially mitigate their risk for cancers driven by hormonal imbalances.

Collaborating with a functional medicine expert, such as Dr. Khan, to develop a personalized health strategy empowers women to take health into their own hands, fostering optimal wellness. Discover a balanced, healthier you at Internal Healing and Wellness MD.

Enhance Your Health and Well-being with Internal Healing and Wellness MD

Estrogen-related illnesses are serious conditions that can be prevented through lifestyle modifications. By embracing a comprehensive functional medicine approach, you can significantly increase your chances of staying healthy and cancer-free. At Internal Healing and Wellness MD in The Woodlands, TX, we are committed to helping individuals like you fight back against colorectal cancer and improve their overall health. Here are five reasons why you should visit Dr. Khan and our team:

Holistic Approach

Dr. Khan and his staff take a holistic view of your health, considering your entire well-being rather than just focusing on symptoms. They strive to identify the root causes of health issues and develop customized treatments tailored to your specific needs.

Customized Treatment Plans

At Internal Healing and Wellness MD, we believe in personalized care. Dr. Khan will work closely with you to create a treatment plan that addresses your unique health profile, incorporating lifestyle modifications, targeted dietary recommendations, exercise plans, and more.

Functional Medicine Expertise

Dr. Khan is a highly trained and experienced functional medicine practitioner. With his expertise, he can guide you on your wellness journey, empowering you to make positive changes and reduce your risk of estrogen-related cancers.

Comprehensive Services

At our clinic, we offer a wide range of services beyond functional medicine. From nutritional counseling and gut microbiome testing to supplement protocols and more, we provide a comprehensive approach to support your overall health and well-being.

Patient-Centered Care

At Internal Healing and Wellness MD, we prioritize patient-centered care. Our compassionate team listens to your concerns, values your input, and actively involves you in the decision-making process. We strive to create a supportive and collaborative environment where your health goals and preferences are respected and integrated into your personalized treatment plan.

Start Your Wellness Journey Today

By scheduling an appointment with Dr. Khan at Internal Healing and Wellness MD, you can take control of your health, reduce your risk of estrogen-related cancers, and discover the transformative benefits of our functional health approach. We proudly serve the Greater Houston area, including Spring, Conroe, Katy, Tomball, and The Woodlands. Our dedicated team is here to help you change your life and lifestyle through our evidence-based, supportive, and personalized healthcare model. Together, let’s pave the way for a healthier and happier future!