Estrogen aids in reproductive and sexual development. The hormone is present in women and men alike but the levels are much higher in women in their reproductive age. It carries out different functions in the body including helping regulate menstrual cycle and enhancing breast growth and development. However, estrogen tends to decline during menopause and this can result in symptoms like night sweats and hot flushes.

Dietary estrogen otherwise known as phytoestrogen are natural plant compounds that work just as estrogen in the body.

How Phytoestrogen Affect Your Overall Health

Estrogen and phytoestrogens have the same chemical structure and can also mimic their hormonal actions. Dietary estrogen typically attaches to the hormonal receptors in the cells which affects estrogen functions in the body. Besides, phytoestrogens also have different functions.

Phytoestrogens have both antiestrogenic and estrogenic effects. It therefore means that some phytoestrogens typically increase estrogen levels in the body while others do the complete opposite and also block the effects. Owing to their complex hormonal actions, there are a lot of controversies surrounding the phytoestrogen topic especially when it comes to health and nutrition.

According to research, high phytoestrogen intake can result in hormonal imbalance with most evidence pointing positive effects. Similarly, studies show that intake of phytoestrogen helps improve menopausal symptoms, decrease cholesterol levels, reduces the risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis.

Estrogen Rich Foods for Breast Enlargement

Here are some sources of phytoestrogen:

#1.  Flax Seeds

They are quite small and have been associated with different health benefits. Flax seeds contain lignans that work as phytoestrogens since they are chemical compounds. They have more lignans compared to other plant foods.

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The phytoestrogens in flax seeds can help reduce breast cancer risk especially in older women in their menopausal stage.

#2.  Edamame and Soybeans

Soybeans are usually processed into different plant-based products like tempeh and tofu. You can also eat them whole. Edamame are immature soybeans usually sold unshelled and frozen in their pods.

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Both edamame and soybeans are rich in minerals, vitamins and protein and have health benefits. They are equally rich in isoflavones.

The soybeans isoflavones produce estrogen related activities by working like natural estrogen. It may either decrease or increase the level of blood estrogen.

A recent study shows a significant decrease in the level of blood estrogen in women who consume soybeans protein supplement. These effects also help reduce the risk of breast cancer. Soy isoflavones effects are complex in the human body. Ultimately, they should conduct more research before drawing final conclusions.

#3.  Dried Fruits

These fruits are rich in nutrients, are quite delicious and can be eaten as a snack. Besides, they are a source of phytoestrogen.

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Dried apricots, dates and prunes are also high in phytoestrogen. Dried fruits contain high nutritional value which makes them a healthy option.

#4.  Sesame Seeds

These seeds are rich in fiber and are usually incorporated in most Asian dishes to make them a little crunchy and nutty. Sesame seeds are also rich in nutrients and phytoestrogens.

 

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Consuming sesame seeds in powder form tends to affect the level of estrogen in women on their menopausal stage. It also improves blood cholesterol and increases estrogen activities in the body.

#5.  Garlic

Garlic always add a pungent aroma and flavor to food. This ingredient is quite popular and not only has health benefits but also culinary attributes.

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Garlic effects in the body are limited and can also influence the levels of blood estrogen. Oil supplements from garlic can provide protective effects related to bone loss due to estrogen deficiency.

#6.  Peaches

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Peaches are quite delicious, sweet and have a fuzzy skin. They are rich in minerals, vitamins and lignans. Foods that contain lignan are known to reduce breast cancer risk by about 15% in older adults.

#7.  Berries

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Berries have a lot of healthy benefits to the body. They are rich in minerals, fiber, vitamins and plant compounds like phytoestrogens. Raspberries, strawberries and cranberries are especially the rich sources.

#8.  Wheat Bran

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This is yet another concentrated phytoestrogen source particularly lignans. Wheat bran with high fiber content reduces the level of serum estrogen in the female body.

#9.  Tofu

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Tofu contains a high level of isoflavones content compared to other soy products. Tofu is typically made with coagulated milk pressed to white blocks. It’s a source of plant protein in vegetarian and vegan diets.

#10. Cruciferous Vegetables

These are plants with different nutrients, flavors and textures. Cruciferous vegetables including cabbages, broccoli, cauli flower and brussels sprouts contain phytoestrogens. Broccoli and cauliflower also contain secoisolariciresinol which is a lignan phytoestrogen while cabbage and brussels sprout have coumestrol a phytonutrient that exhibits estrogenic activities.

If you cannot find these plants, you can take their equivalent supplements, such as the one below”

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#11. Tempeh

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This is some kind of vegetarian meat, a typical fermentation of a soy product.  Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans compacted to form a dense cake. It’s a source of vitamins, prebiotics, minerals, protein and isoflavones.

Do Phytoestrogens Have Any Side Effects?

Consuming foods rich in phytoestrogen have a lot of healthy benefits to the body as compared to the potential risks if taken in moderation. According to research, high intake can result in complications and risks. However, the finding is not quite conclusive. This therefore means that you should approach the side effects with skepticism.

Conclusion

Phytoestrogens are mainly found in plant foods. Incorporate some of the foods above in your diet to increase your intake of phytoestrogen. Estrogen rich foods help enhance the size of your breasts.