I want to cover a hormonal imbalance that way too many women suffer from, but most do not know they have it.
I’m talking about Estrogen Dominance.
The common symptoms of Estrogen Dominance are:
- tender, lumpy, and fibrocystic breasts
- estrogenic cancers such as breast, ovarian, uterine
- fibroids
- uterine polyps
- endometriosis
- PMS
- heavy periods
- irregular periods
- thyroid nodules
- cellulite and stubborn fat on the butt and thighs
- water retention
- weight gain, especially around the butt and hips
- infertility
- lack of ovulation
Note: Even though you might be headed for peri- and menopause, you can still be experiencing Estrogen Dominance.
How so?
Let’s Understand Estrogen Dominance (ED, in Short) First
It can happen due to two main reasons:
Reason #1: You have insufficient progesterone to oppose estradiol, the “aggressive” estrogen that has been connected to the growth of pathogenic cells like in the case of fibroids, cancers, and endometrial tissue.
Reason #2: The way your body is breaking down estrogens to the various estrogenic metabolites, is not favorable to you. I call them the “dirty” estrogens.
Due to a poor liver function, inappropriate diet, nutritional deficiencies, gut issues, chronic constipation, and use of “conventional” skincare and cleaning products, your body is receiving and/or creating too much of the antagonistic or “dirty” estrogen metabolites that cause harm.
Common Misconceptions
Please read these. So many of our readers believe in these, to their detriment:
Misconception #1: I’m headed for peri- and menopause, I can’t have Estrogen Dominance since my estrogen levels are dropping.
Yes, you can.
Even though your estrogen might be dropping, the way the estrogens get broken down is what causes the ED symptoms.
This is why so many women who enter peri- and menopause, in spite of low estrogen levels, develop ER+ (estrogen receptor positive) breast cancers. It’s the estrogen metabolites (I call them the “dirty” estrogens) that cause it – not too much overall estrogen.
Misconception #2: I need to lower my estrogen intake and avoid food high in estrogens (called phytoestrogens, such as flaxseed) because I’m already estrogen dominant.
That’s not the issue.
You want estrogen (or else you won’t be well as a woman), just the right type and the right metabolites.
Most women with ED do not suffer because of too much estrogen but because they are not breaking down and evacuating these estrogens well enough.
The only thing you want to lower is xynoestrogens (synthetic or external estrogens) found in commercial skin care products, perfumes, and cleaning products. Products containing phthalates, parabens, BPA, benzophenone, and Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) should not be found in your house.
Misconception #3: Even though I clearly have Estrogen Dominance, I should not eat cruciferous vegetables because I have hypothyroidism.
This one is a pervasive misconception that has been copied-and-pasted by bloggers without fact checking. First off, there is not a single study that shows that cruciferous vegetables inhibit thyroid function. All the thyroid experts including Dr. Izabella Wentz, Dr. Alan Christianson, Dr Kharrazian agree – eating cruciferous veggies will not slow your thyroid down.
Secondly, cruciferous vegetables (see below on the supplement line-up and explanation) are key in resolving Estrogen Dominance. Excess “dirty” estrogens increase the protein Thyroid Binding Globulin (TBG) – this means that the more estrogenic you are, the higher the rate of the TBG protein that binds up thyroid hormones – causing low thyroid function.
ED also interferes with the conversion of the T4 hormones (including Synthroid) to the bioactive T3 which is your working horse. Low T3 hormone causes many of the symptoms associated with low thyroid including hair and eyebrow loss, sudden weight gain, depression, anxiety, severe fatigue, infertility and miscarriages, constipation, feeling cold a lot of the time, and more.
Not to mention that crucifers help to detox the liver which is fundamental to thyroid health as well as estrogen metabolism.
Tip: If you’re experiencing symptoms Estrogen Dominance, you can find out more by taking my Free Estrogen Quiz. The truth is Estrogen Dominance symptoms occur to 75% of women, but a whopping 90% of them don’t even realize they have it. I recommend taking this quiz to find out for yourself here.
How to Reverse and Manage Estrogen Dominance?
The best approach that will generate the fastest and most profound changes is when you combine diet changes with supplements.
Diet is your foundation.
Supplements are your amplifiers and healing accelerators.
Since this article is focused on supplements, I will dive right in.
Key Products I Recommend:
#1 DIM
Ideal for you, if:
- You know that your 2:16 hydroxyestrone (can be tested with blood) balance is off, this is a great product to add.
- You are high in testosterone and you convert testosterone to estrogens.
- You need Phase 1 liver detoxification support (you probably know that yet, more on that below).
#2 Sulforaphane
Sulforaphane is a compound high in broccoli sprouts. It is a potent Phase II liver detox facilitator, acting on the sulfation pathway. Sulforaphane has also been linked to being anti-carcinogenic in estrogenic cancers.
#3 Calcium D-glucarate
Calcium D-Glucarate helps the elimination of excess estrogen and other toxins and protects against re-absorption. It supports Liver Phase II, glucuronidation pathway detox. (It’s not the kind of calcium you take for your bones.)
Let’s Go Into a Little More Detail on Each of These Key Products and Their Nutrients
1. DIM
The DIM we make provides 100 mg of DIM (Diindolylmethane) – a type of compound known as a ‘plant indole.’
Plant indoles are found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower and are among the nutrients that give these vegetables their well-known healthful properties.
The primary plant indole found in cruciferous vegetables is known as Indole 3 Carbinol (I3C), which converts to DIM in the body.
I3C and DIM have been studied for their health-promoting benefits when used as supplements.
While both may help support healthy estrogen metabolism, DIM may be a better option as it does not produce the unwanted side effects of I3C (including possible nausea and equilibrium issues).
Buying Tip: When getting DIM, be sure it comes in oil form – it is the highest bioavailable form that is most likely to make a difference in your health.
How Does DIM Offer Superior Absorption?
DIM is made up of a crystalline structure that makes it difficult for the body to absorb.
To overcome this hurdle, DIM is manufactured using an all-natural process that helps to optimize the absorption of this nutrient by the body – using a proprietary blend of MCT oils, non-soy derived lecithin, and vitamin E, without the use of potentially harmful surfactants.
This delivery technology increases the absorption rate and reduces the absorption time for DIM, and as a result, it may allow for superior effects through lower dosages.
DIM and Hormone Balance
Both women and men produce many different forms of estrogen. Research suggests that the ratio of two specific forms – 2 hydroxy estrogen and 16 hydroxy estrogen – is important for optimal health.
DIM helps support a more optimal balance of these two estrogen metabolites, thereby providing a protective effect on the body. DIM also acts as an aromatase inhibitor – it means that it can block some testosterone from converting to estrogen, making more testosterone available in the body (can be a good thing). This could have a positive influence on sexual desire and athletic performance in both men and women.
The Difference Between I3C and DIM
I recommend using DIM and not I3C for two reasons.
First, I3C needs co-factors to get converted to DIM which is what does the work.
Plus, I3C, in the process of helping the 2:16 estrogen metabolism, also increases the 4 hydroxy estrone which has been linked to breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers.
In short: DIM is a better and safer option.
Benefits of DIM
- Supports Phase I liver detoxification.
- Helps maintain a beneficial ratio of 2 hydroxy estrogen to 16 hydroxy estrogen (also known as a higher ‘2/16 ratio’).
- Supports healthy balance of testosterone and estrogen.
- Provides antioxidant properties. DIM has been shown to help protect cells in the body from the damaging effects of oxidation.
- Has none of the side effects associated with I3C.
- Can be specifically formulated for maximum absorption and bioavailability.
Why has DIM stopped working or made you feel worse?
DIM has been marketed by many companies as the “estrogen buster.” Yes, it does have all the benefits I covered but note that it only upregulates Phase 1 liver detoxification. In this phase, the toxins become “freed” and need to be conjugated, or “coupled up” with specific compounds found in Phase II liver detoxification, such as methyl groups, sulfur – these compounds bind up the Phase I toxins and evacuate them through urine, sweat, and feces.
When your Phase II liver function isn’t nourished with compounds that neutralize the toxins from Phase I, your body will struggle and you will most likely feel worse. This explains why many women either feel their symptoms of ED lift for a few weeks, and then start feeling worse. Some women feel worse right away.
The way to solve this is to combine DIM with Phase II liver detoxifiers – sulforaphane and calcium d-glucarate. More on these, below.
Why Not Just Eat Cruciferous Vegetables?
Eating two pounds of cruciferous vegetables like raw cabbage or broccoli can ultimately supply, via I3C conversion into DIM, about 20-30 mg of DIM.
To get 100mg of DIM (I typically see best results with 200mg/day), one would need to eat 6 pounds of these crucifers – which isn’t doable for most people.
Having said that, once you rebalance your 2:16 ratio, a clean diet, rich in cruciferous veggies, might be sufficient to keep you symptom-free.
Can DIM be Taken with Medications?
Unlike I3C, DIM is safe when taken with Tamoxifen, birth control pills, and other herbs such as St. John’s Wort.
There are no known contraindications for DIM supplementation.
DIM’s proven safety means that DIM can be used by women wishing to get pregnant but should be discontinued during pregnancy and lactation.
My Recommendation
Start with 100mg of DIM. If it makes you feel worse, or you see no improvements, consider adding sulforaphane and calcium d-glucarate.
Precautions
Some research has shown DIM may affect blood sugar levels. For this reason, people with diabetes or hypoglycemia and those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that affect blood sugar should be cautious when supplementing with DIM. Talk to your healthcare provider and make sure blood glucose levels are being monitored if you start taking DIM.
2. Sulforaphane
Sulforaphane is a mighty (and safe) compound I feel is highly underestimated and underused by both allopathic and functional professionals. I’m so smitten by it that I may sound like a snake oil salesman. In addition to helping aid in the body’s detoxification, sulforaphane has been shown to have long-lasting antioxidant effects, offering protection from oxidizing free radicals and anti-estrogenic cancer properties. It is also the most powerful anti-inflammatory and is showing impressive anti-carcinogenic properties.
Derived from broccoli sprouts, it has similar characteristics to DIM but is not quite the same. Not only does this compound offer detoxification and antioxidant support, but it is protective for the cardiovascular as well as nervous systems.
Its benefits can be summed up as:
- phase 2 liver detoxification
- raises “good” estrogen (2-OH estrone)
- shrinkage of breast lumps and cancers
- powerful anti-inflammatory
- protects from free radicals
- strengthens the immune system
I’m a big fan of getting sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts, but if you don’t have the time or access, a supplement is a good option.
Sulforaphane and Hormonal Balance
Sulforaphane aids hormone balance in several ways.
Liver detoxification: Sulforaphane is directly involved in supporting liver detoxification, which is important not only for liver function but for the rest of the body as well. It targets biological pathways that both modulate Phase I enzymes and elevate Phase II enzymes, allowing for full and proper detoxification of unsafe chemicals along with “dirty” estrogens.
Anti-carcinogen and detoxifier: Research shows when it comes to supplementing with sulforaphane, premenopausal breast cancer risk was decreased with higher broccoli consumption, it can increase the activity of detoxification enzymes, it’s effective in reducing thyroid cancers, and it raises OH-2 estrone, which is the protective form of estrogen.
Chemoprotection: Sulforaphane is considered a chemoprotective agent for various types of cancers, including estrogen-receptive breast cancers.
Digestive health: A recent study determined sulforaphane supplementation decreased the overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria in the stool including h.pylori, and improved daily bowel habits of the study participants.
Here are the citation of these claims.
- It inhibits breast cancer stem cells (source) and well as triple negative breast cancers (source).
- It increases the production of liver Phase II detoxification enzymes and glutathione synthesis (source, source).
- Premenopausal breast cancer risk was decreased with higher broccoli consumption (source).
- Oral supplementation showed antioxidant Phase II enzymes induction in the human airway as a strategy to reduce the inflammatory effects of oxidative stress (source).
- It has an anti-tumor effect on thyroid cancer (source).
- It sensitizes estrogen receptors to better receive Tamoxifen, helping to reduce the drug dose to achieve the same results (source).
- It normalizes bowel movement in healthy subjects (source).
- It raises OH-2 estrone, which is the protective (or “clean”) estrogen metabolite (source).
Broccoli sprouts and sulforaphane content
While working with our manufacturer on formulating the sulforaphane supplement, I learned that, unfortunately, the sulforaphane content in supermarket-purchased broccoli sprouts can vary significantly from low to high. The below chart demonstrates this finding.
There is no way of telling which product is high or low in sulforaphane contents (and organic sources didn’t make a difference). I’m still a big fan of growing and consuming broccoli sprouts on a regular basis.
However, if you are dealing with a persistent type of Estrogen Dominance or serious conditions such as a large fibroid, breast, or thyroid cancer, I recommend considering supplementing with a high-quality sulforaphane supplement.
Sulforaphane supplements are not made equal (what to look for)
Top-quality sulforaphane is derived from raw material containing high levels of glucoraphanin (the raw material) as well as added myrosinase. Myrosinase is the enzyme that facilitates the conversion of glucoraphanin to sulforaphane – which then guarantees the presence of, for example, 7mg of sulforaphane per serving. Myrosinate improves sulforaphane availability by about 8 times. Many cheaply-made supplement manufacturers don’t use this formulation approach leaving the product efficacy to chance. Furthermore, it helps if the sulforaphane formula contains vitamin C – research shows an even higher bio-availability of sulforaphane.
Recommended Dosage
Find a sulforaphane supplement that guarantees 3 to 7 grams of sulforaphane (not just glucoraphanin), provides myrosinase, and preferably contains vitamin C. We formulated our Wellena Brocco Power exactly this way and I believe it is one of the top products in the market.
Precautions
If you are taking medications that are changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) substrates), check with your provider before taking sulforaphane. Sulforaphane impacts the liver and these medications may act too fast or have side effects.
The Difference Between DIM and Sulforaphane (the clogged toilet analogy)
Since both DIM and Sulforaphane support liver detoxification, especially from the perspective of hormone clearance, what is the difference?
As mentioned earlier, the market has established DIM as an “estrogen buster.” DIM can be wonderful as it helps metabolize estrogen, especially “dirty” estrogens, which are the problematic metabolites that can cause so many of the Estrogen Dominance symptoms.
Many women notice it helps at first and then it stops working. Some may have found it makes estrogen symptoms even worse.
Here is the reason: DIM upregulates phase 1 liver detoxification. Your liver also has phase 2 detoxification. Both of them need to work well for the junk to eventually get evacuated through your colon and kidneys (i.e., poop and pee).
To make it a little more graphic, imagine a toilet with a toilet bowl and a drain to carry the waste out. With DIM, you have just unclogged your toilet bowl but not the drain. In fact, the toilet bowl might be so open now that the drain can’t cope, and the result is the toilet is still clogged up and overflowing.
So, back to your liver and estrogens. DIM has just helped you open up phase 1 detoxification, but if your phase 2 isn’t working as well (which in most people it isn’t), you won’t feel better.
The good news: You can open up phase 2 liver detoxification with two potent substances: sulforaphane and calcium d-glucarate.
3. Calcium D-Glucarate
Calcium D-Glucarate, as an activator of the glucuronidation liver pathway, is another potent liver detoxifier that clears “dirty” estrogens and other harmful toxins. I also have found it to be very beneficial after several toxic exposures. For example, if you live in a polluted place or have been taking painkillers and antibiotics to prepare for a surgery, you may particularly benefit from calcium D-glucarate, which is found naturally in many fruits and vegetables such as oranges, apples, and cruciferous vegetables. It inhibits beta-glucuronidase, which is an enzyme that reduces the liver’s detox ability, allowing toxins and “dirty” estrogens to re-enter the blood. High levels are seen in people who eat diets too high in fat. It’s been linked to inflammation and certain forms of estrogenic cancers including breast cancer.
It supports:
- the removal of harmful “dirty” estrogens (source) thus supporting Estrogen Dominance
- in connection to the above point, it’s been used in treatments of fibroids, endometriosis breast cancer prevention (source)
- liver detoxification Phase II detoxification (source)
- lower inflammation (source)
- lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol (source, source)
- anti-carcinogenic properties (source)
- post-surgery and toxic exposure recovery
Calcium D-Glucarate and Hormone Balance
Calcium D-Glucarate aids hormone balance by supporting:
Liver detoxification: Glucaric acid (which is what calcium d-glucarate is converted to) binds to toxins, which are then removed in the urine. Supplementation with calcium D-glucarate has been shown to inhibit beta-glucuronidase, a specific enzyme produced by microflora in the large intestine and involved in phase 2 of liver detoxification that lowers the occurrence of breast, prostate, and colon cancers. Removing toxins from the liver will increase liver function and promote a healthy metabolism. It will also allow your liver to eliminate other toxins that would otherwise cause problems.
Estrogen detoxification: Calcium d-glucarate removes the harmful “dirty” estrogens, which are the harmful metabolites of estrogen that may be responsible for conditions such as fibrocystic breasts, breast lumps, ER+ breast cancers, thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer endometriosis, fibroids, infertility, mood swings, and PMS. This research validates cancer prevention and estrogen metabolism.
The immune system: Furthermore, this study shows calcium d-glucarate decreases inflammation by activating the immune system and increasing the activity of the anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol: One study showed the use of calcium d-glucarate lowers LDL cholesterol by 35%. Many women with low thyroid function suffer from high LDL cholesterol.
Recommended Dosage
Recommended dosage of calcium d-glucarate ranges from 150 mg to 300 mg per day, taken with meals. We have Calcium D-Glucarate in our Wellena store.
Recommended Form
Pick a supplement free of gluten, soy, additives, and dyes.
Precautions
Calcium d-glucarate can speed up the metabolism of toxins and decrease the effectiveness of medications changed by the liver. If you are taking any medications, please speak to your doctor before adding calcium d-glucarate. If taking calcium d-glucarate, some patients take it four hours away from their medications.
Which Product to Start With?
It all depends on your health and on which “links are broken” or not working optimally in your body to detox you from the “dirty” estrogen metabolites.
My recommendation is:
If you are highly symptomatic (and experience things like fibrocystic breasts, stubborn breast lumps, advanced endometriosis, quickly growing fibroids), start with all three products:
- DIM
- Brocco Power (contains sulforaphane)
- Calcium D-Glucarate
You can save money when you get the Estrogen Reset Kit, which contains all three of these products.
If you are not that symptomatic and/or budget is an issue for you, start with Sulforaphane (Brocco Power).
If the symptoms do not subside, add DIM and Calcium D-Glucarate.
Supplements or Food?
You know I’m a big believer that food is the foundation of our hormonal health. So when is it right to just rely on food or when to take the supplements?
It depends on where you are.
If you are highly symptomatic from Estrogen Dominance, I recommend starting with the supplements because they will relieve many of your symptoms. Then, continue with an anti-estrogenic diet.
When I had lumps on my breasts and water retention that forced me to take all my rings off, I did DIM and Brocco Power for 2 months – to quickly rebalance my hormones and reduce all the symptoms.
It worked.
I then stopped taking the supplements and as long as I keep a clean diet (anti-inflammatory, free of gluten, dairy, low in sugar, 70% plant-based with no coffee and minimal alcohol), I remain symptom-free.
Learn more with Overcoming Estrogen Dominance
“The body has an amazing ability to heal. We just need to give it the right resources.”
In Overcoming Estrogen Dominance, my goal is to empower and give you the tools to take control of your hormones and health.
More than 70% of women experience Estrogen Dominance. The symptoms range from lumpy and fibrocystic breasts to thyroid nodules, hot flashes, fibroids, uterine polyps, painful, heavy or irregular periods to infertility and miscarriages, from mood swings to insomnia, weight gain to fatigue.
So many women have experienced the pain and frustration that comes when they feel their symptoms and complaints are dismissed or minimized. This is particularly true for women who are experiencing the symptoms of hormone imbalance. Even when doctors do offer treatment, it’s typically in the form of prescription medication or invasive surgical procedures.
In Overcoming Estrogen Dominance, I hope to show that those extreme interventions are often unnecessary, and to give women a roadmap to reverse Estrogen Dominance using food, herbs, supplements and natural protocols to rebalance hormones.
To get your copy of Overcoming Estrogen Dominance, go here.
Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
When I’ve used DIM in the past, my liver enzymes became elevated, apparently a rare reaction. Any thoughts on what I might do instead?
Hi Heather, I have had this happen to me too! Did you find anything else out about it and what you can do instead? I’m very curious as I am on bioidentical HRT and would like to take DIM.
Brenda Wesa, Calgary
This happened to me too… Any information on if this is okay to keep taking?
Hi Chelsea. It’s possible that phase 2 of liver detoxification needs more support at this time with Brocco Power (sulforaphane) and Calcium D-Glucarate. Talking with your functional medicine practitioner is always a good idea if you’re unsure about continuing to take DIM.
– HB Team
Hi
Does seed rotation diet will help also, Or one should eat only the progestron supporters e.g. seaseme and suflower seeds?
Hi Liron,
Yes, it is designed to help but to work, one should be taking the whole see rotation as she recommends for it to be most effective ~Deanna HB Team
What are your supposed to do if you believe you are sensitive to some of the seeds?
Hi Julie, If you know you are sensitive you will want to avoid them. Everyone is different, for some people seeds work, and for some, they don’t. ~ HB Support
HI Heather,
It is good to eat the foods that have natural (DIM) and you can learn more about these from the workshop http://www.cookingforbalance.com
~Deanna HB Team
Hi there! This article is full of great information. I suffer from ED and have been taking a form of DIM and Calcium d Glucoranate and my symptoms are getting worse. More water retention, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain. Any insight? Could it just be temporary or should I stop?
Hi Erin,
If you find that your symptoms are getting worse…are those the only changes you have made-you may want to take a break from both. Then, you could slowly add them back in (one at time) to see if you can pinpoint the issue. ~Deanna HB Team
I am experiencing hair loss .i am 65 and went thru menapause at 52
Is this a hormonal imbalance Should I be on woman wise or something else
@ Kris C – I am 44 and have had some hair loss on my head, but hair on chin is getting thicker. Anyway, I asked a naturopath about the hair loss and long story short you may want to look into this scenario: sulfates in shampoo cause testosterone on scalp to turn into dht or a bad form of testosterone which weakens follicle, then hair falls out. The supposed fix for this is sulfate-free shampoo and rinse with vinegar. I just started doing this and do not see results yet because it will reasonably take a long time for the hair to grow out and stay in the follicles in order to see an increase in hair “thickness”. But, it’s low cost enough to try it!
Hey Kris, you need to do a complete thryoid and hormonal workup. Thryoid tests must include TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Reverse T3 and thyroid antibodies. Sadly if you ask a primary dr. or an endocrinologist, the only numbers they are interested in is TSH and will say the rest is unimportant. That is untrue. You should also test your hormone levels, including SHBG, total and free testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone. Presumably estrogen and progestserone are lower if you’re post menopausal. You should also conduct complete nutritional tests to cover the range of nutrients you need for healthy hair, skin, etc. I advise going to a functional medical practitioner instead of using a traditional gyno, endocrinologist, or primary for these concerns. Even a dermatologist, unless they are specialists in female hair loss, will often prove useless. Hair loss in women is multifactorial. You should not blindly supplement with ANYTHING until you know exactly what, if anything, your body is missing. I am dealing with all of this right now in meno and it’s a hard road, but getting the appropriate help and treatment and avoiding those pills and traditional dr’s that cannot help is an important part of the process.
Hi Kris,
Many imbalances can overlap. Please check this quiz to learn more https://hormonesbalance.com/quiz/. Hair loss can be thyroid related as well ~Deanna HB Team
Thanks so much for such an informative article!
My daughter is 25 and suffers from acne and very painful periods. Are these symptomatic of ED, and if so, which supplements would be most helpful?
Hi Caroline,
We are hoping you have found some answers for your daughter. Here is a quiz to see which imbalances to consider https://hormonesbalance.com/quiz/. If you think she does have Estrogen Dominance, please have her read this article for supplement recommendations. ~Deanna HB Team
I’m currently on a bioidentical hormone replacement regime for some pretty unpleasant perimenopause symptoms and because in general my hormone levels were pretty low. Amongst other I take estradiol in the form of a cream. I just got the results from a genetic test that showed my estrogen metabolizing pathways in the liver are pretty much busted. I don’t detox estrogen well. Also I’m genetically at a higher risk for certain cancers like breast, endometrial, cervical. Naturally now I’m concerned about the estradiol cream (of course I got in touch with my doctor and am currently waiting for a response). I’m wondering if taking DIM would be a good idea to get rid of potential bad estrogen and would enable me to still stay on the bioidentical hormone replacement? I would very much appreciate your input and of course will run it by my doctor (who may not know about DIM). Many thanks.
Hello Akat, Both DIM and Calcium D-glucarate help to clear the bad estrogens, these would both be great to talk to your care giver about. ~ HB Support
Firstly thanks for writing this article it has been so informative. I suffer from ED but am not peri-menopausal. However I suffer from undiagnosed fertility problems and recurrent miscarriage too. I am convinced that there is a link between my inability to conceive regularly and my ED. I had a round of IVF where they put me on down regulation meaning they eradicated all my natural hormones and gave me just the right amount, it’s no coincidence that following that I became pregnant 3 times in 4 months. What is the best product to take whilst actively trying to conceive?
Hi Laura,
It does sound challenging. It is good that you have found Magdalena and her blog. It may depend on which pathway of the liver is struggling. Each supplement works on a different area. Her top 3 recommendations for resolving estrogen dominance are DIM https://hormonebalancenutritionals.com/collections/single-products/products/estro-support, Calcium D Glucarate https://hormonebalancenutritionals.com/collections/single-products/products/calcium-d-glucarate and Brocco Power https://hormonebalancenutritionals.com/collections/single-products/products/brocco-power. I hope that helps.
~Deanna HB Team
Hi Deanna,
I need to know this, too.
Is it safe to take ALL THREE when trying to get pregnant?
Thanks!
J
Hi Jeannie,
Yes, you may take all three prior to pregnancy, but they are not recommended during pregnancy. We also recommend DUTCH testing to determine if you need the full suite of products or not. You can learn more about DUTCH in this article. https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/what-lab-tests-to-order-to-manage-your-hormones/. Regards, Jennifer HB Support
I have a fibroid the size of a tennis ball, is the fibroid kit better than the estrogen dominance kit? Also is the elimination diet the best diet to start with or do you recommend something else
Hi Angie,
The Elimination Diet is the best diet to start with according to Magdalena. Also, it is recommended to start with the Fibroid Kit https://hormonebalancenutritionals.com/collections/frontpage/products/fibroid-kit first and if more support is needed, then follow with the Estrometabolizer Kit https://hormonebalancenutritionals.com/collections/frontpage/products/estrometabolizer-kit. I hope that helps. If you have more questions, please contact [email protected]
~Deanna HB Team
Hi, would it be okay to take the wise woman’s balance while having a hormonal IUD? I’ve been experiencing gut issues and bloating that I think might be associated with the progestin that has been introduced.
Thanks
Hi Rebecca,
Do you plan on keeping the IUD in place? ~Deanna HB Team
Is there anyway I can access purchasing the supplements from the UK ?
What would you use for heavy periods?
Hi Dianna,
Yes, that is a sign of estrogen dominance. The supplements each work on a different pathway. So, it will depend on what kind of support the liver needs.
You can start off one at a time and see which works best for your body. These are the recommendations for resolving estrogen dominance; DIM https://hormonebalancenutritionals.com/collections/single-products/products/estro-support, Calcium D Glucarate https://hormonebalancenutritionals.com/collections/single-products/products/calcium-d-glucarate and Brocco Power https://hormonebalancenutritionals.com/collections/single-products/products/brocco-power. I hope that helps.
~Deanna HB Team
Hi,
I am 27 years old and have two fibroids. About a month ago, I started taking DIm 100mg to manage my symptoms. The DIM was making me feel sick so I decide to pair it with the calcium D-glucarate.
I have noticed that when I take the supplements, I start spotting around my ovulation and it doesn’t stop unless I stop taking the pills.
Do you possibly know why? Will it stop? I have of course schedule an appointment with my gynecologist but that is in a month.
HI I really appreciate all the good information here. I know it is a complex subject, and that I only know a little. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and 3 other minor auto immune diseases. I started HRT (estrogen) 7 years ago because my fare up revolved directly around my period. It was miraculous! I really feel that I never had enough estrogen in my life. I became more confident, less moody, much less pain, my fibro fog completely dissolved. I was also given Progesterone to balance the estrogen and I cannot take it at all, I flare up and get sick. My OBGYN stays very on top of my testing for breast, and ovarian cancers and I am good. I am curious if what I believe is true can I woman not have enough estrogen naturally? Thanks! Amy
Hi Amy,
Thank you for your kind comments. We actually can have 3 types of estrogen in the body. The “dirty” estrogen needs to be released for our “good” estrogen to naturally boost. Aging can be a natural factor as well. Liver support is key 🙂
~Deanna HB Team
Hi
I’ve been having terrible low mood, extreme fatigue weight gain periods coming more often flushing week before my period comes. The days just before my period starts I can hardly function. Then it comes it’s full of clots last a day and goes. Then I get the exhaustion I just want to sleep. I’m 49 in March on antidepressants. I’ve just bought vitamin C 1000
Estrcgen supplement and K2 and Dim. Do you advise these supplements. I’m struggling and only feel normal only week of the 28 days..
Hi Debbie,
Yes, you need to be feeling better more than a few days a month. We do not know your estrogen supplement. So, we cannot comment on that one. nor the K2. Vitamin C, and DIM can be helpful. You may need to look at dietary changes as well. Supplements can be a good start but liver support is very important as well for resolving Estrogen Dominance. If you have more questions, you may contact [email protected]. ~Deanna HB Team
This is all very interesting, I’m 46 and do have some of the symptoms listed..how would I know for sure? With a blood test? I need a checkup anyway and am wondering if my GYNE can do hormone blood testing? Would kind of tests should I ask for?? I’d be very interested in knowing where I’m at with my levels.
I recently had a needle biopsy for my second cyst. I used atural progesterone to get through menopause symptoms and for bone health. I am on Synthroid. At 65 should I stop using the progesterone completely? It does help irritability.
Hi Jan,
We request that you discuss the progesterone with your practitioner. It does seem like you may want to consider looking into Magdalena’s Cooking for Hormone Balance program. It teaches how to heal imbalanced by healing the gut, supporting the liver and balancing sugar. Here is her free preview link https://hormonesbalance.com/cfb/watch/ ~Deanna HB Team
Hey, I just started DIM I’m taking the Zhou product which is 250mg per tablet and I have been taking 1 a day for just over a week.
Just wanted to know, if DIM can u make you bloated when u start taking it?
I have become quite bloated and emotional since I started it about a week ago. Is this normal?
I have been researching Dim. The info I have read does say not recommend if you have a estrogen breast cancer risk
If you are actively undergoing cancer treatment such as chemo, radiation or vaccinations, we recommend for you to first get clearance from your doctor.
If you are after cancer treatments, the products have not been contraindicated for ER+ cancers treatments including Tamoxifen and Raloxifene.
The role of diidolylmethane aka DIM can reduce the antagonistic estrogen responsible for cancer growth – you may be interested in checkout out this study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15623462
Hope this helps!
Healthy regards, HB Team
We cannot speak to other supplement brands, however you might be interested in checking out this article to learn more about how to best pick a supplement company.
https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/adrenals-articles/how-to-trust-a-brand-of-supplements/
Also, we recommend starting out with one new supplement at a time, that way you can have a better idea as to what is causing certain symptoms. Please feel free to reach out to [email protected] for more information.
Healthy regards, HB team
[…] Best Supplements for Estrogen Dominance – HormonesBalance.com […]
Can 100 mg of dim cause dry skin?
We have not had any reports on DIM causing dry skin. Healthy regards, HB Team
I would like to try an estrogen supplement, but after taken an anti-inflammatory prescription for some time I have developed an allergy to Sulfur base items. I know that many times what is considered to be all natural ,can sometimes contain a substituted item. The allergy begin over 13 yrs ago and has made life much more difficult to enjoy socially. Limiting eating, drinking and social outings for me with family and friends. I know that vegetables have a natural sulfur derivative, I make every effort to avoid them because of it unpleasant effects after being ingested. Commonly known ingredient as MSG used in many of our every day items, including bottled water which is why I have to be extremely careful. So my question is does your item contain any of the related factors of Sulfur, Sulfites of any sort?
Hi Veronica,
Per our supplement expert, you should have no issues with DIM as it does not contain sulfur or sulfites. ** Sulfate is really just a sulfur and it is not a sulfite. MSM provides organic sulfur and is a nutrient. Sulfa-based drugs, also known as sulfonamides, do not occur naturally and are used as antibiotics. The sulfa molecule is much larger and can cause severe reactions in some individuals. While many people are allergic to sulfa drugs, no similar reactions have ever been reported with MSM. A third sulfur-containing compound, known as sulfites, is a form of preservative that can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. MSM does not contain sulfites, and should not cause a reaction in sulfite-sensitive individuals. The human body produces sulfites in its normal metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids. Sulfite compounds have been used for more than three hundred years and are generally considered safe.
Hope this helps!
Healthy regards, HB Team
I want to know are your pills good for adenomyosis? And which ones should I take?
Thank you!
Thank You for sharing this useful information, Every woman should know it, I got through this blog has really helped me in understanding this topic.
I am happy to hear that you have benefited from this article! Please feel free to reach out to [email protected] for additional support. Healthy regards, HB Team
[…] Best Supplements for Estrogen Dominance […]
I’d love to start using the recommended supplements but I live in Europe. How will I find similar products to the ones you recommend?
Thanks
Hi Magdalena,
A thought to consider, some of our international followers have started using Myus.com (a third party shipper). You will have to check them out to see if that is a fit for you. We have not heard of anyone having problems with their service.
[…] Helps address estrogen dominance […]
I want to know are your pills good for adenomyosis? And which ones should I take?
Also I have fibroids and right now I am taking the Lupron shot every 3 mos.
Thank you!
Hey Angela,
Please feel free to reach out to [email protected] for further support.
Healthy Regards,
HB team
U always talk about regular menopause, what about those of us that have a total hysterectomy. We live with hot flashes. Supplements don’t work. U need to talk about our needs cause I’m sure there are a lot of us out there needing help too
Hi Hattie,
Thank you for your feedback.
You may wish to look into supplementing with progesterone and/or estrogens (like the bio-identical tri-estrogen products) – the latter should be done under the supervision of a functional practitioner.
Healthy Regards
Taylor
Hi Taylor, what if the hysterectomy is a result of first stage uterine cancer? Can we still take bio- identical estrogen and progesterone?
Kind regards,
Veronica
HI Vera,
Thank you for your question. It would be best to speak to your doctor or practitioner about what would work best under those circumstances.
Healthy regards,
HB Team
Please help me! I have been on DIM for several months & felt decent, better periods also. Then I learned I am sulfur intolerant & stopped the DIM & switched to calcium d glucarate. I spent the next 3 days feeling like I have the flu (die-off?) so I stopped. Now I am bright red, sweating all day & night & feel miserable. What do you think the problem is here? Was I getting die-off from the calcium d glucarate OR am I having these symptoms because I stopped the DIM? I want to do a sulfur elimination diet so I am very confused .
Hi Suzanne,
Please reach out to the HB team at [email protected].
Healthy Regards,
HB team
[…] of B6, B12, and Folate are needed for healthy cell signaling and function, including that of breast and cervical cells. Your adrenals also need B vitamins, fatty acids, minerals like magnesium, and amino acids like […]
Can I take any of the supplements with the Maca from femminessence?
Hey Meredith,
I am not aware of any contraindications between Maca root and these supplements, however, it is best to refer to the advice of your medical professional.
Healthy Regards,
HB team
Are you ever going to make a thread on aromatase deficiency and how to increase low estrogen in young women?
You’ve made a lot of posts regarding estrogen dominance but nothing on young girls that suffer from low estrogen and high testosterone. Synthetic hormones in north control actually lower the natural estradiol in the body for girls with PCOS after withdrawing. Theres no research or investigations on low estrogen compared to estrogen dominance.
Can you provide the source for the cancer risks you mention? My holistic docs cannot find any sources on that.
HI Danielle,
I’m unsure of which part of the article you’re referring to? Lots of the info above has the “source” linked for further reading, just click the highlighted word. Hope this helps.
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
Thank you for this article! I am curious about how long one needs to take DIM, calcium glucarate for? Or is it just like taking a daily multivitamin and good practice long term?
Hi Sarah! DIM supports phase 1 of liver detoxification while Calcium D-Glucarate supports phase 2. They work best when taken together along with an anti-inflammatory diet. Once you begin to feel healthier and more balanced with relief from symptoms, it is possible to maintain this balance through a strong nutritional foundation.
I hope this helps and feel free to get in touch at [email protected] with any additional questions! 🙂
– HB Team
Hello!
2 questions:
1. I purchased all three supplements, DIM, Brocco Power and Calcium D-G and am wondering if there is a specific combination you’d recommend to make them most effective. Meaning, DIM and Calcium D-G together, and the Brocco separately. What is the best way to take these supplements in relation to one another.
2. You recommend 3-7g of Brocco Power in this article, but the recommended dose on the bottle is 500mg 1/day. Please clarify.
Thank you!
can these 3 supplements reverse endometrial cancer? Trying to avoid surgery and do alternative. Thankyou!
Hi Jeanette! These three supplements work together to support healthy estrogen metabolism and elimination. It could be helpful to discuss incorporating any supplements into your treatment plan with a functional medicine practitioner. We wish you the best on your healing journey!
– HB Team
I have completed a Dutch test and I have very high levels of estrogens going through the 16-OH pathway but I also have low estrogen and androgens and I read that DIM can reduce estrogen so it is not advised to take if you already have low estrogen, Can you recommended another Phase 1 detoxification supplement that doesn’t reduce estrogen? My phase 2 detoxification is working fine. Thank you!
Hi Michelle,
Sulforaphane works on the 16-OH pathway as well as the Phase 1 pathway, and does not lower estrogen. NAC in another option that helps with this.
The sulforaphane supplement we carry is called Brocco Power. You can find it here: https://wellena.com/products/brocco-power-sulforaphane
– HB Team
Do you have any articles on myomin? I read all of the information and currently take dim myomin and progesterone cream for estrogen dominance. I am very confused if I should take your estrogen kit or not
I also want to mention that I work with a hormone doctor. I was feeling really great for a long time I went to him because I was having extremely heavy cycles and my OB told me that I needed to be on birth control which was the worst thing that I could possibly do for myself so I went digging some more and did research and found the hormone doctor. We discovered that my iron levels were extremely low and I was heavily estrogen dominant. He put me on progesterone cream which I felt really great for a while I started taking DIM and myomin. However suddenly my cycles do not seem to be any better they were for a couple months but about 10 days before my cycle I just feel absolutely miserable bloated painful breast attitude mood nothing has changed I’ve been very consistent so I’m just doing some more research out here trying to figure out what I need to do to feel better. My doctor tells me to just keep doing what I’m doing but In my gut I am not convinced that is enough.
Hi Kelsey,
We do not have any articles on Myomin. Myomin is a proprietary blend of herbs that can be taken alongside DIM. Both have different functions in the body. These are the ingredients in Myomin according to the label:
“Myomin is a herbal complex containing astragalus membranaceous, white curcumin, aralia, cyperus rotundus and smilax grablar”
Our articles on astragalus and turmeric (curcumin) may have some useful information for you.
Astragalus: https://hormonesbalance.com/?s=astragalus
Curcumin: https://hormonesbalance.com/?s=curcumin
The Estrogen Reset Kit contains DIM, Brocco Power (sulforaphane), and Calcium D-Glucarate. DIM supports Phase I of liver detoxification, however for complete estrogen metabolism and detoxification you also need to support Phase II. This is why some women feel worse when taking just DIM.
Talking with your health practitioner about options for supporting Phase II (like the Estrogen Reset Kit) is a great idea. Please also reach out to our team at [email protected] if we can answer any other questions or do more to support you.
– HB Team
Broccoli, whether in powder or sprouts, is poison for some people. It’s full of salicylates, which some people can’t break down. Even small amounts of broccoli make me very sick. It’s far from a panacea for anything.
Hi Robin, everyone is different in their unique biological needs. We all have different physiological that determines what we can and can’t consume to support our health. It’s great to hear that you have gone on your journey to discover what works best for you! ~HB Support
Hi,
I am starting to take DIM and milk thistle (I ordered Calcium d glucarate to replace the milk thistle once I’ll receive it).
My concern is that I am on birth control -I plan to get off it but I want to do it once I am totally ready. I have read that liver detoxificating supplements such as milk thistle and calcium d glucarate can lower the effectiveness of birth control pill since both are filtered by the liver.
You mentioned taking CDG and other medications 4 hours apart to avoid decreasing their effectiveness. Is that also true for birth control pill? Can I take both DIM, CDG and my BC pill without fearing it to be less effective?
Thanks a lot for your answer
Hi Julie, thank you for reaching out. Typically, taking it four hours apart will reduce the risk of decreasing effectiveness. That said, to be sure you will want to consult with your health practitioner on this matter. ~HB Support
[…] Wszelaki, M. (2021, May 20). Best Supplements for Estrogen Dominance. HormonesBalance.Com. https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/best-supplements-for-estrogen-dominance/ […]
So, I take the DIM, the Brocco Powder, and Calcium D together or do I spread them out during the day?
Hi Michelle, the Brocco Power, DIM and Calcium D-Glucarate can all be taken together. We recommend taking these three supplements with food. Also since the Calcium D-Glucarate is 2 pills, we would recommend taking 1 in the am, and 1 in the pm for best absorption. ~HB Support
I’ve just started taking DIM and sulforaphane and I feel absolutely exhausted and drained. My bowels are also sluggish and I feel a bit constipated. Why would this be ?
Hi Katie, this can happen when you start to open up the liver detox pathways and you start experiencing a sudden increased ability to detox. This can lead to what is known as “detox symptoms” which can include changes in bowels like constipation or diarrhea, bloating, headaches, brain fog, rashes or itching. This usually lasts a few days and then starts to improve over time. ~HB Team
Hello, I have tried taking the Dim Supplement. I had a very severe headache, and spent the good part of the night trying not to throw up. Severe nausea. even had to take an anti-emetic so sick. I was sweating profusely and felt hungover the next morning. I am reluctant to try a lower dose with this severe reaction. I am on Progesterone / testosterone cream and estrase cream as well for menopause issues. I was hoping to incorporate Dim as I heard this is helpful with the hormone replacement treatments to counteract cancer issues. Is there something else to try? Smaller dose with something else to help with reactions?
I am now 46 years old but at 26 years old I lost my uterus, ovaries, cervix, and tubes due to endometriosis. There is literally ZERO data out there for someone like me. After my surgery they put me on PremPro for about 10 years until my insurance refused to cover it so I switched to about 2mg of oral estradiol. At 39 years old I began to gain weight no matter what I did so after much research I found a clinic that FINALLY checked ALL my hormones and I found out I had NO detectable progesterone or testosterone in my body, my estradiol was low and my Estrone was about 6 times higher than my estradiol levels which explained my weight gain, acne and all my other symptoms. I have been on DIM since then, however, I have had a very hard time maintaining lower Estrone levels. Although they have significantly improved, last checked a few months ago my Estrone was 129 (pg/mL) and my Estradiol was 24.3 (pp/mL) I have been told that my Estrone levels should be half of what my Estradiol level is, which would mean I am no longer experiencing Estrogen Dominance. No one ever told me about these other supplements you have suggested and I am feeling so incredibly frustrated. I did experience a time in which I was able to achieve a balance between Estradiol and Estrone and when I did I dropped 30lbs in 3 months, it was so fast my hair began to fall out. Why can’t I get there again????
Hi Nikki, thank you for sharing with us what you have been experiencing and have experienced. We can only imagine the stress going through all of this caused for you. You may want to look into working with a naturopathic doctor or other functional medicine doctor who can look at things with you more in depth. Although your estrone, estriol and estradiol may be in balance, the problem with estrogen dominance is that even with a good balance of the above 3, if your ratio to progesterone is out of balance, or the metabolites for the estrogen being broken down is imbalanced, you may still struggle with ED symptoms and experience acne, weight gain, hair loss, mood swings and more. In addition, if you’ve had a full hysterectomy and have very low progesterone, you may want to look into bioidentical topical progesterone. Many times doctors only prescribe estrogen HRT but forget to also add in some progesterone for balance. Without combination HRT, you will consistently show ED signs because your progesterone is so low it cannot counter balance the estrogen. We have a whole article on progesterone here you may find helpful: https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/topical-progesterone-when-why-and-how-part-1/ Please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] for more support and if you need resources for finding a good doc near you! ~HB Support
I am taking estrohalt. Did not want to take letrozole. Had breast ca. Clear margins on tumor and nodes . 4 weeks ready no chemo. Can I take calcium d glucarate with this.
Hi Pat, you would want to discuss this with your practitioner, so they can look at your full picture, and decide what would work best for you. Hb Support
I have Invasive Lobular carcinoma driven by estrogen.
It is an estrogen type cancer that does not show up in mammograms. Must have a MRI to see early on
Both breast just removed. Fighting for my life now at age 67.
More women need to know about this estranged driven cancer. See article by D. Anderson on Lobular cancer.
I need your help.
Can you comment on any solutions for progesterone resistance? Should I still supplement with it if I’m resistant?
Hi Laurie, Progesterone resistance can happen when we are low estrogen. Estrogen needs to create the receptor for progesterone, and so if we are not tolerating progesterone, this can sometimes be an issue. You might also learn more in this article, as it lists why sometimes Progesterone doesn’t work. https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/topical-progesterone-when-why-and-how-part-2/ Take care – Jen HB Support
Brown spots on the body means to much estrogen? yet I need to take estrogen because the lining of my uterus is loss an according to the Dr. can come out. I am 86 years old an had cancer of the blatter, they call it the safe kind the does not grow.
Hi Helen, bioidentical estradial estrogen is a healthy estrogen and should not contribute to brown spots. Jen @HB support
I have tried taking DIM and d calcium glutamate and have unbearable migraines when I do. I tried 200mg, 100mg and 100mg every other day then every third day. Still migraines. Any suggestions?
Hi Bethany, we are sorry to hear that. Headaches can definitely be a detox symptom, and for some migraines can be triggered when detoxing estrogens. You might try just supporting Phase 2 liver detoxification and see how your body does with our Brocco Power product. Here is a link for you: https://wellena.com/collections/single-products/products/brocco-power-sulforaphane-2 , you could also look at NAC, and see if that is right for you. Both of those may be gentler and may help you detox slower. It could be that working on the Phase 1 of liver detoxification is triggering he migraine. I hope that helps. Jen @HB Support
Glucarate in comment above. Autocorrect ugh
Hi! I am going to start taking the Happy Sisters supplement to help with a fibroadenoma and also ordered the Brocco powder. I detox pretty slow and also have MTHFR deficiency. Would
you recommend starting off with the Brocco powder for a few weeks before adding in the Happy Sisters (which has DIM and other herbs)? Just a lil afraid of a massive amount of detox symptoms.
Hi Katie, yes we would recommend starting with the Brocco Power to start opening up your detox pathways. Once you have added this in, after a week or so you could add in the Happy Sisters supplement to the regimen. This will allow you to start slowly detoxing with added support before including a supplement with multiple nutrients and herbs which may have a slightly stronger effect. You can always reach out to us at [email protected] as well if you need any extra guidance as you start. ~Dr. Stephanie
What if you are hypoglycemic?
Should all three of theae products be taken at the same time? What is the best time of day to take these supplents?
Hi Cathelna, They can be taken together, and can be taken at anytime of day. That said most people take them with a meal in the morning. HB Support
Do you have any website recommendations of where I can get these products in the UK? I’m not able to purchase from your store as I’m overseas.
Hi Nicola, unfortunately no. We are only selling in the US at this time. But you could try a forwarder like MYUS.com, or something like that to purchase our supplements. You just have to know your own countries laws about importing supplements. Jen @Hormones Balance and Wellena
Thanks for the info, I’ll be honest and say i don’t know the UK’s import rules! Please consider shipping to us in the UK in the near future 🙏🏼 There are so many rubbish supplements out there that it’s really hard to get our hands on quality supplements from a good brand
We are working on it! Thank you for your interest! Jen @Wellena and Hormones Balance