What Foods Contain Natural Estrogen?

Estrogen is found naturally in many foods, while other foods may inhibit estrogen. Some of the same foods that offer natural estrogen also offer other valuable nutrients that are important to a healthy diet. It is always recommended to eat a wide variety of healthy foods rather than focusing on only a few. The effects of estrogen should also be discussed with your doctor to ensure it is a healthy plan for you.

Seeds

Many seeds contain natural estrogen. Some examples of these seeds include anise seeds, flaxseeds, sesame seeds and sunflower seeds. Some of these seeds, such as sunflower seeds, may be consumed as snacks. Others are easy to add to other foods such as baked goods.

Grains

Certain grains provide a good source of natural estrogen. Wheat, alfalfa, barley, oats and rice contain estrogen. Using these grains in your cooking will provide a natural source of estrogen in your meals.

Vegetables

Not all vegetables contain natural estrogen. Some vegetables may actually inhibit estrogen. Yet some vegetables are a good source of estrogen. These vegetables include beets, carrots, cucumbers, eggplant, peas, peppers, potatoes, split peas and yams. Vegetables offer many other valuable nutrients, making them a good component to any diet.

Fruits

Most fruits are estrogen inhibitors. There are some exceptions though. Apples, cherries, tomatoes, pomegranates and plums are fruits which provide natural estrogen. These fruits are a healthy way to include sweet flavors in your diet while also adding natural estrogen.

Beans

A variety of beans offer the added bonus of natural estrogen. Chickpeas, black-eyed peas, red beans and soybeans add estrogen to the diet. These beans are often found in soups or casseroles. They may also be consumed alone.

Other

Eggs, dairy products, garlic, baker’s yeast, clover, olive oil, olives, parsley and sage also offer the benefits of natural estrogen. These food products can be added to the diet in a variety of ways, either by themselves or in other dishes.

Estrogen Inhibiting Foods

Some foods naturally inhibit estrogen. This can be beneficial if you suffer from a condition that may be exacerbated by estrogen. This list of foods includes berries, grapes, melons, pineapples, pears, squash, green beans, cabbage, broccoli, citrus foods, corn, onions, millet, buckwheat, white rice and white flour.