Does estrogen protect women from high cholesterol?
Lets understand what is estrogen
Its a hormone primarily associated with female reproductive health, plays a crucial role in protecting women from high cholesterol, particularly before menopause. Relationship between estrogen and cholesterol levels has significant implications for women's cardiovascular health throughout their lives.The protective effects of estrogen on cholesterol are multifaceted. One of the most notable benefits is its ability to increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "good" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, transporting it to the liver for disposal. By boosting HDL levels, estrogen contributes to a healthier cholesterol profile and a reduced risk of heart disease.Simultaneously, estrogen helps lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly known as "bad" cholesterol. LDL cholesterol can build up in artery walls, leading to atherosclerosis and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
By keeping LDL levels in check, estrogen provides another layer of protection against cardiovascular disease. Beyond its direct effects on cholesterol levels, estrogen also offers protection to blood vessels. This additional benefit further contributes to its overall cardio-protective effects, helping maintain the health and function of the cardiovascular system.The impact of estrogen on cholesterol becomes particularly evident when we consider the changes that occur during menopause. As women approach this life stage, their estrogen levels naturally decline. This hormonal shift often results in an increase in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
The loss of estrogen's protective function is one factor contributing to the increased risk of heart disease observed in postmenopausal women. While the benefits of naturally occurring (endogenous) estrogen are clear, the effects of externally administered (exogenous) estrogen, such as that used in hormone replacement therapy, are more complex. Oral estrogen therapy can increase HDL cholesterol and decrease LDL cholesterol, potentially offering some of the same protective effects as endogenous estrogen. However, it may also increase triglyceride levels in some women, which could potentially offset some of the benefits.It's important to note that the effects of estrogen on cholesterol can vary among individuals.
Factors such as a woman's baseline HDL levels may influence how she responds to estrogen, whether natural or supplemental. Additionally, cholesterol levels in premenopausal women can fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, corresponding with changes in estrogen levels.Estrogen's protective effects extend beyond cholesterol management. For instance, it can improve insulin sensitivity, which indirectly impacts cardiovascular health. Insulin plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, and improved insulin sensitivity can help maintain overall metabolic health.
In conclusion, yes, endogenous estrogen does have some protective properties against cholesterol. One of the functions of estrogen is the improvement of the Lipid Profile, increasing the HDL levels or the "good" cholesterol. By increasing the HDL you are decreasing Cardiovascular risk compared to men and menopausal women. Estrogen also improves insulin sensitivity, as you know insulin is a molecule that allows sugar to enter the cell. Sugar is used as fuel for energy in the cell, thus allowing the cell to function optimally.
It is very important for a person with elevated cholesterol to be monitored and properly addressed under the supervision of a physician. If you are interested in knowing more about your cholesterol levels please give me a call to schedule a free 15 min phone consultation to see if Functional Medicine is right for you.
Yelena Davydova D.O.
