What are Xeno-estrogens?

Xeno-estrogens are foreign estrogens that can be found in hundreds of synthetic materials.  Research indicates that our increased exposure to xeno-estrogens in the last fifty years has been a significant contributing factor to the rise in hormonal imbalances.  Xeno-estrogen exposure has also been implicated as a risk factor for the development of estrogen dependant cancers including breast cancer for women who are genetically pre-disposed.

How to Reduce Your Exposure to Xeno-estrogens?

1. Avoid heating food with plastic wrap in the microwave.  A Dartmouth University Study demonstrated how plastic wrap heated in the microwave with vegetable oil released an overabundance of xenoestrogens.
2. Use stainless steel or glass drink bottles for carrying drinking water.  Avoid storing drinking water in commercially disposable plastic bottles.  Look for BPA free plastic wear.
3. Eat organic foods as often as possible.  Herbicides and pesticides are a common source of xenoestrogens in our diet.  If choosing non-organic fruits and vegetables, wash well.
4. Choose natural and organic personal care products and cosmetics.

What are Phyto-estrogens?

Phyto-estrogens are substances produced by plants that can both increase or decrease the levels of circulating estrogen in the body, depending on the circumstances.  They can assist in regulating your body’s production of estrogen and are therefore balancing for women with both high and low estrogen levels.  Eating foods that are high in phyto-estrogens can can help to balance your hormones, relieving menopausal symptoms and symptoms of estrogen dominance including PMS, fibrocystic breast disease, fibroids and endometrioses.

Good Sources of Phytoestrogens?

1. Soy products made from whole soy beans (not soy isolates).  Choose organic GM free soy products eg.  Soy milk, tofu, tempeh, soy beans, miso soup.  Eat 1 serve/day as part of a well balanced diet.  (1 serve = 600ml soy milk or 55g tofu or tempeh).
2. Alfalfa sprouts/brocoli sprouts
3. Ground linseeds (try LSA – ground linseed, sunflower seed and almonds 1 tbs/day sprinkled on breakfast cereal or yoghurt).
4. Sage – prepare a herbal tea using sage from the garden – 1 tbs of herb infused in 1c. boiling water.  Steep for 10 mins, strain and enjoy!  Add 1/2 tsp of honey if you prefer exrtra sweetness.  Drink 3 c/day