Estrogen -- a little is good -- too much is not

The male body needs a small amount of estrogen as conversely the female body needs a small amount of testosterone. Estrogen in men helps prevent osteoporosis, supports sex drive and brain function.

Excess estrogen in men is not good. It offsets the effects of testosterone, causes the body to retain water, can cause the prostate to swell and increases the risk of prostate cancer.

In the past there was a belief that testosterone caused prostate cancer.  We now know that healthy testosterone supports prostate health. It is the conversion of testosterone to estrogen that increase the possibilities of prostate problems.

Excess estrogen in men occurs as men age and hormones decline.  Men tend to become more sedentary, allowing the body to accumulate fat--primarily belly fat. Fat contains an enzyme called aromatase which may convert testosterone to estrogen. 

In treatment, when we raise the level of testosterone to a healthy level, some testosterone may convert to estrogen.

Approximately 65% of the new clients at Renew Man have belly fat and may have an issue of converting testosterone to estrogen.  We control the level of estrogen as part of our treatment by placing men on an estrogen blocker if necessary. i.e, We use a medication to suppress estrogen conversion as we raise testosterone levels. A large majority of the above clients work on diet and exercise -- the result -- in 6 months they have lost the belly fat, have stopped converting and can be taken off the estrogen blocker.

Summary: Excess estrogen is unsafe and adds to the symptoms of andropause.  Testosterone treatment is safe if done correctly.  It should be noted that testosterone replacement – there are supporting studies -- decreases the chances of developing prostate cancer. It is the conversion of testosterone to estrogen that causes an enlarged prostate (lifestyle and diet are also contributing factors) and/or increases the risk of prostate cancer. Increasing testosterone levels and controlling estrogen lowers the risk of prostate problems.