Foods That Have Estrogen

The female body produces estrogen until menopause, and then it slows down production of this hormone. There are foods that contain natural estrogens, sometimes called phytoestrogens, that may give health benefits if you include them in your diet.

Benefits

Food estrogens or phytoestrogens, chemically resemble those found in the human body. Estrogen can help reduce the symptoms of menopause, regulate the menstrual cycle, lower heart disease, help prevent osteoporosis, reduce hot flashes and moderate mood swings.

Soy

Tofu

The phytoestrogens in soy foods are similar to estrogen and seem to help reduce menopause symptoms. Soy may also prevent cancer and prevent heart disease.

Soy is found in foods such as, soybeans, soymilk, soy sauce, tofu, tempeh or soy cake and miso, which is a soy paste. Soy is also added to meat, breads and cereals. You can purchase soy burgers if you want a meatless burger.

Cereals

Cereal

Cereals and grains that contain natural estrogens are barley, fennel, flaxseeds, oats and wheat.

Vegetables

Vegetables

Vegetables high in natural estrogens are beets, parsley, peas, carrots, peppers, eggplant, cucumbers, yams, potatoes, pumpkin and alfalfa.

Fruits

Fruits

Fruits high in natural estrogens are apples, cherries, dates, papaya, plums, pomegranates and tomatoes.

Other Foods

Other foods that contain natural estrogen are olive oil, baker's yeast, meat, licorice, anise seed, clover, black-eyes peas, dairy foods, garlic, olives, red beans, rice, sage and sunflower seeds.

References

• Holistic Online: Estrogen Foods
• Kids Health: Estrogen foods
• University of Minnesota: Estrogen