Estrogen is a hormone that plays an important role in both men and women. In men, estrogen is responsible for maintaining reproductive health, producing testosterone, and regulating moods. Too much estrogen can cause several health problems in men, so it’s important to know the symptoms and take steps to lower your levels if needed.
High estrogen levels in men can cause abnormal breast enlargement (gynecomastia), testicular shrinkage, infertility, sexual dysfunction, and a decrease in muscle mass. It can also lead to mood swings, depression, decreased libido, fatigue, and increased fat storage. High estrogen levels are linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer
In this post, we’ll discuss what estrogen is, what causes high estrogen levels in men, and the symptoms of high estrogen. We’ll also cover how to lower your estrogen levels and when you should see a doctor.
The Role Of Estrogen In Men
Estrogen helps regulate many essential functions in men, including metabolism, sexual function, and reproductive health. It also helps produce testosterone, which is responsible for maintaining muscle mass and regulating moods. A small amount of estrogen is necessary for male health, as it helps regulate testosterone production. However, too much can be harmful.
What Causes High Estrogen Levels In Men?
High estrogen levels in men can be caused by a variety of factors. These may include obesity, aging, certain medications, and an imbalance of sex hormones. In some cases, the cause is not known or cannot be determined. In addition, certain medical conditions such as liver or kidney failure, testicular cancer, and tumors can cause high estrogen levels in men.
One of the most common causes of high estrogen levels in men is obesity. Fat cells produce estrogen, and as a man’s body mass index (BMI) increases, his risk of high estrogen levels also rises. This is because the more fat a man has, the more estrogen he produces. Additionally, excess fat around the waistline can increase the risk of health problems related to high estrogen levels, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Some medications can cause high estrogen levels in men. These include certain prescription drugs for treating acne, heart disease, and prostate cancer. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or illegal anabolic steroids can also cause high estrogen levels.
That’s why a doctor prescribes Arimidex for men specifically to minimize the natural increase in estrogen that can occur with TRT. This is because estrogen can have negative effects on blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both of which can be affected by TRT.
Age is also a factor. As men get older, their testosterone levels decrease and their estrogen levels rise. This can lead to an imbalance of sex hormones and result in high estrogen levels.
What Are The Symptoms Of High Estrogen Levels In Men?
Here’re 5 most common symptoms of high estrogen levels in men:
1. Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of high estrogen levels in men is fatigue. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor sleep, anemia, and low testosterone levels.
2. Weight gain
Weight gain is another common symptom of high estrogen levels in men. This can be due to a variety of factors, including water retention, increased appetite, and reduced metabolism.
3. Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a condition that results in the enlargement of breast tissue in men. This can be a side effect of certain medications or an underlying medical condition.
4. Mood swings
Mood swings are another common symptom of high estrogen levels in men. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalance, stress, and anxiety.
5. Erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is another common symptom of high estrogen levels in men. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including low testosterone levels, poor blood circulation, and psychological issues.
How To Check Estrogen Levels In Men?
It’s important for men to keep their estrogen levels in check, just as it is for women. This is why doctors often use a variety of tests to measure estrogen levels in men.
One common test is the estradiol test. This measures the amount of estradiol, which is a type of estrogen, in the blood. The test can be done with a simple blood draw.
Another common test is the testosterone-to-estrogen ratio (T:E ratio). This measures how much testosterone there is compared to estrogen. It can help determine if there’s too much estrogen in the body. This test can also be done with a blood draw. The results will determine if you have high, normal, or low levels of estrogen.
How Can Men Safely Lower Their Estrogen Levels?
Men can safely lower their estrogen levels with a few lifestyle changes and natural remedies. Here are some tips:
- Eat a balanced diet that is high in fiber, low in sugar and saturated fat, and rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Exercise regularly to promote healthy hormone balance.
- Avoid excess alcohol consumption as it can raise estrogen levels.
- Reduce stress by practicing yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques.
- Take natural supplements that may help reduce estrogen levels like DIM (diindolylmethane) and chrysin.
- Avoid hormone-altering medications and anabolic steroids.
There are also a few medications that can help men to lower estrogen levels quickly. These include:
- Arimidex (anastrozole) – This is a medication that is specifically prescribed to men to minimize the natural increase in estrogen that can occur with TRT.
- Clomid (clomiphene citrate) – This is a medication that is used to stimulate ovulation in women. It can also be used to lower estrogen levels in men.
- Tamoxifen (nolvadex) – This is a medication that is used to treat breast cancer. It can also be used to lower estrogen levels in men.
When it comes to lowering estrogen levels in men, consulting with a doctor is key. This can help identify underlying causes and provide the best course of treatment. Taking certain medications or supplements may be necessary, but talking to a medical professional first is important.