Although many of us think of estrogen has just one hormone, it is actually consists of a group of hormones. The most notable estrogen hormones are estrone, estradiol and estriol. After menopause, estrone becomes the predominant estrogen where as prior to menopause, estradiol is the more prominent estrogen. The balance of these hormones are critical to our well being and is known to play a role in breast cancer. Too much or too little of any one of these estrogen hormones can increase or decrease our risk for breast cancer and other female cancers.

We know that a variety of environmental exposures that affect this balance. Likewise, certain foods can help us maintain a healthy balance of these hormones. These foods contain I3C (indole-3-carbinol). I3C is found in cruciferous vegetables. Good sources or I3C are:

• Arugula Kohlrabi
• Bok Choy Mustard
• Broccoli Mustard greens
• Brussels sprouts Radish
• Cagbbage Rutabaga
• Cauliflower Sauerkraut
• Collard greens Turnips
• Horseradish Wasabi
• Kale Watercress

Make it fun and try a new vegetable from this list once a month. Some of these vegetables are very easy to prepare. For example, brussel sprouts can be cut in half and seasoned with a small amount of oil and sea salt and then baked in the oven. It makes a delicious side dish to any meal.

Interested in learning more about your hormone balance? Book a complimentary consult with Dr. Sohayda and take charge of your health!