The Effects of High and Low Estrogen Levels in Men

Estrogen is often misunderstood as strictly a “female” hormone, but in reality, it plays a vital role in male health, too. From regulating sexual function to maintaining bone strength and cardiovascular stability, estrogen is a key hormone for people of all genders including men.

Although testosterone is the dominant sex hormone in people assigned male at birth, estrogen particularly a form called estradiol is essential to balancing bodily functions. Too much or too little can lead to a range of health concerns, including fertility problems, mood changes, and bone loss.

Let’s explore how estrogen works in the male body, what happens when levels are imbalanced, and the safest ways to keep hormones in check.

Why Men Need Estrogen

Estrogen isn’t just about reproduction. For men, this hormone helps:

• Regulate libido and erectile function

• Maintain healthy cholesterol levels

• Support bone mineralization and density

• Protect against cardiovascular disease

• Aid in sperm production and quality

Estrogen is produced when an enzyme called aromatase converts some testosterone into estrogen. The body requires a healthy balance of both testosterone and estrogen not too much or too little of either.

According to experts, what matters most isn’t a specific number, but the testosterone-to-estrogen ratio, which ideally hovers around 15:1.

Signs of Hormonal Imbalance

Symptoms of High Estrogen in Men

• Erectile dysfunction

• Gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue)

• Unexplained weight gain

• Fatigue or mood swings

• Depression

• High blood pressure in the lungs

• Migraines or frequent headaches

Symptoms of Low Estrogen in Men

• Delayed ejaculation

• Reduced bone density or osteoporosis

• Joint pain

• Fatigue or lack of motivation

• Poor concentration

• Increased body fat and insulin resistance

Because many of these symptoms can overlap, it’s important to get tested before assuming the cause.

What Causes Estrogen Imbalance?

Causes of High Estrogen

• Obesity: Excess fat tissue can increase aromatase activity, converting more testosterone into estrogen.

• Aging: As testosterone declines with age, estrogen may rise due to changes in metabolism.

• Anabolic steroid use: Performance-enhancing drugs can raise estrogen levels through hormonal disruption.

• Certain tumors or endocrine conditions: These can elevate estrogen production.

• Hormonal therapies: Such as hCG, which can stimulate aromatase activity.

Causes of Low Estrogen

• Natural aging: Testosterone (and estrogen) decline gradually with age.

• Chronic illnesses: Including cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases.

• Extreme low body fat: Particularly in athletes or individuals with restrictive eating habits.

• Genetic conditions: Like hypogonadism or hemochromatosis.

How to Test and Treat Estrogen Imbalance

If you’re experiencing unexplained physical or emotional symptoms, a simple blood or urine test can evaluate your estradiol and testosterone levels. This test helps identify whether hormonal imbalance may be behind your symptoms.

Important: Never attempt to self-diagnose or treat hormone imbalances with over-the-counter supplements or medications. Misusing hormone-altering substances can worsen your condition and lead to lasting health consequences.

What Treatment Looks Like

If your levels are out of range, treatment may involve:

1. Lifestyle Changes

• Weight management: Fat tissue increases estrogen production.

• Exercise: Aim for 20–30 minutes a few times a week to improve hormone regulation.

• Balanced diet: Whole foods rich in fiber and low in processed fats can support better metabolism.

Foods that may influence estrogen:

• Increase: Soy, flaxseed, garlic, apples, carrots, and coffee

• Manage or stabilize: Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale

2. Medication or Hormone Therapy

Only prescribed by a healthcare provider:

• Aromatase inhibitors: Block conversion of testosterone to estrogen

• Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs): Reduce estrogen’s activity

• Hormone replacement therapy: Used cautiously to correct deficiencies

When to Talk to a Doctor

If you’re noticing persistent fatigue, changes in libido, erectile issues, or unexplained mood swings or weight gain, it’s time to talk to a provider. Hormones impact every system in your body and ignoring imbalances can take a toll on long-term health.

“You can’t think your way out of a hormone imbalance,” says Dr. Amin Herati of Johns Hopkins Medicine. “Do your due diligence. Get seen and evaluated.”

Key Takeaways

• Estrogen is just as essential for male health as testosterone balance is key.

• High or low estrogen levels can cause symptoms ranging from sexual dysfunction to mood changes and bone loss.

• Weight gain, steroid use, aging, or certain conditions may throw estrogen levels out of balance.

• Testing and treatment should always be done under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

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