Estrogen Levels Important to Good Health

By Lois Thomson

Studies have shown that approximately half of women over the age of 50 will break a bone as a result of osteoporosis.  Part of the reason is that bones are weakened by the loss of the hormone estrogen during menopause, and estrogen helps protect bones.

Along with menopause, some risk factors, such as age and family history, cannot be controlled.  However, estrogen levels can be increased naturally by eating foods that contain phytoestrogens, which are plant-based compounds that replicate estrogen in the body.  Some foods that contain phytoestrogens, or lignans (another form of phytoestrogens), are:

• Soybeans, which are also high in vitamins, minerals, and proteins 

• Sesame seeds

• Flaxseeds

• Red clover, which can help treat conditions associated with menopause 

• Garlic, which can reduce health risks associated with estrogen imbalance 

• Mediterranean fruits, such as oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, figs, which are also high in fiber 

• Nuts

Additional foods that may help increase estrogen levels include a number of other fruits, such as apples, berries, grapes, peaches, pears, and plums, and barley, oats, wheat germ, and olive oil. 

Men are not exempt from osteoporosis, either, although their risk is not quite as high.  An estimated one in four men over age 50 will break a bone as a result of the disease.  More specifically, about 80,000 men will break a hip.