Oestrogen (or oestradiol, to give it its posh scientific name) is the ultimate multitasker in the human body. This hormone quietly underpins everything from your brain’s agility to your skin’s glow. Think of it as the behind-the-scenes genius ensuring your body’s orchestra hits all the right notes.
Here’s why oestrogen should have a reserved seat at the table of life’s essentials:
Brain: The Mastermind’s Assistant
Oestrogen does more for your brain than you might imagine. It’s not just a hormone; it’s a cognitive enhancer, emotional stabiliser, and even your personal thermostat manager.
Anti-inflammatory: Keeps the brain spry and unruffled.
Improves blood flow: Ensures the brain gets its daily dose of oxygen and nutrients.
Enhances neurotransmitters: Boosts dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, and more—essentially your brain’s chemical toolkit.
Improves mood and reduces anxiety: A natural mood lifter that’s always on duty.
Helps with memory and learning: Makes remembering your niece’s birthday and acing quizzes feel effortless.
Sleep promoter: Encourages deeper, more restorative sleep.
Boosts brain cell connections: Keeps the brain network buzzing like a well-tuned Wi-Fi system.
Heart: The Loyal Caretaker
If your heart’s a metaphorical engine, oestrogen is its diligent mechanic, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Controls heart rate: Maintains a steady rhythm to keep you ticking along nicely.
Keeps blood vessels healthy: Supports the endothelium, the cell layer that lines blood vessels.
Lowers blood pressure: Promotes healthy circulation, reducing strain on your cardiovascular system.
Liver: The Metabolic Maestro
Oestrogen’s influence on the liver ensures a harmonious balance of fat, sugar, and cholesterol.
Regulates cholesterol: Reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases the good kind (HDL).
Improves glucose metabolism: Keeps blood sugar levels from wandering into chaos.
Enhances fat breakdown: Encourages the liver to metabolise fats efficiently, keeping you energised.
Skin: The Glow Getter
Your skin owes much of its elasticity and youthful vitality to oestrogen.
Boosts collagen production: Keeps skin plump and wrinkle-resistant.
Reduces moisture loss: Protects against the dreaded dullness.
Improves elasticity: Ensures your skin can bounce back (literally).
Enhances blood supply: Provides that healthy, fresh-faced glow.
Bones: The Structural Engineer
Strong bones aren’t just about calcium—they need oestrogen too.
Increases bone density: Reduces the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
Reduces joint inflammation: Keeps you agile, even on damp British mornings.
Improves muscle strength and flexibility: Essential for balance and endurance.
Lubricates joints: Makes every step, stretch, and reach that bit easier.
Bowel: The Gut Guardian
Oestrogen doesn’t shy away from digestive duties either.
Maintains bowel function: Ensures things move along as they should.
Supports friendly bacteria: Keeps your microbiome in top form.
Reduces heartburn: Helps regulate the digestive tract, cutting down on pesky reflux.
Bladder and Beyond: The Unsung Hero
Even the most overlooked parts of the body benefit from oestrogen’s diligent oversight.
Bladder function: Reduces infection risk and keeps everything under control.
Nerve transmission: Improves signalling across your nervous system.
Vaginal health: Maintains lubrication, friendly bacteria, and healthy tissues.
Oestrogen is not just a hormone;
it’s an architect, conductor, and caretaker rolled into one.
From your brain to your bones, this quiet powerhouse ensures your body works seamlessly.
