Have you ever wondered why so many of the women you know are suffering from endometriosis, fibroids, severe and debilitating PMS, low libido, anxiety, depression and premature menopause? Has the female gender gone mad? It seems that our mothers did not endure these conditions, so what has happened to us?

Unlike our mother's generation, our modern world has introduced many estrogen-type chemicals in the foods we eat and the water that we drink. It has been estimated that synthetic estrogens, known as xenoestrogens, can reach as high as three percent concentration in our drinking water, since local sanitation systems do not filter out metabolites of oral contraceptives (the Pill) and HRT (hormone replacement therapy) regimes. Also, many preservatives, flexible plastics (such as plastic wraps) and pesticides act on the estrogen receptors in the body, causing an overproduction of estrogens by strongly binding to our estrogen receptors.

At the same time, it is very common for progesterone to be ­under-manufactured due to chronic overproduction of a hormone called cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal gland in response to perceived stress. Food intolerances, refined sugar and caffeine intake can augment the stress response and cause a roller coaster-type ride of extreme ­symptoms.

How can we reverse these conditions and bring our bodies back into blissful balance? Basic natural medicine concepts dictate the use of supportive liver herbs such as artichoke leaf and dandelion (whole plant). These herbs improve the efficiency of the liver to rid the body of excess estrogen so that the estrogen-to-­progesterone balance can be ­restored to normal.

In addition, soluble fibre, such as pectin and slippery elm powder, should be added to our daily regime to ensure the appropriate transport of estrogen metabolites out of the body through bowel movements. Finally, minimizing the intake of xenoestrogens along with increasing the intake of plant estrogens will act to restore proper estrogen balance in the body. Beneficial phytoestrogens are found in plant foods such as green beans and sprouts.

Supportive measures aimed at normalizing adrenal function are key to long-term hormonal balance. To nurture your adrenals, you may wish to investigate the use of ashwagandha and siberian ginseng, along with relaxing activities such as meditation and yoga. Avoidance stimulants such as caffeine and refined sugar is also a necessary step.

Being a female and being in ­balance is possible and our natural state.

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