Wrinkles and sagging occur from collagen loss and the breakdown of elastin. Some women may even develop adult acne on their chin and neck, which is directly related to hormonal balance.

The ratio of estrogen and progesterone is extremely important in order for the system to be in sync. When estrogen becomes dominant, the risk of disease increases and aging speeds up. Estrogen imbalance often goes on for years without being diagnosed, leading to unnecessary suffering and aging. Eating a nutrient-rich diet will help the liver detoxify and metabolize toxins more efficiently. Adding plenty of healthy fats and fiber and reducing stress is one way to a balanced body.

TIPS FOR PREVENTING ESTROGEN DOMINANCE AND HORMONE IMBALANCE
Get rid of personal care products with questionable ingredients that may disrupt the endocrine system and have toxic effects on the skin and overall health. For example, many women wear perfume every day. It may be habit to put it on before leaving the house, but some perfumes have additives that could be toxic! Fragrance is a vague ingredient that is not very telling, yet it is a common ingredient in cosmetics, perfumes, and lotions. What these chemicals do to the body is not clearly known because they have many complex actions. What is known is that they can affect the behavior of natural hormones and increase the risk of cancer and other serious diseases. The body is exposed to hundreds of chemicals every day and they are having a major impact on the delicate ratio of what natural hormoanes are meant to be.

The way women are experiencing premenstrual syndrome, perimenopause, and menopause is also being affected, as is their skin and how they age. Hormones help to control wrinkles, dry skin, hair loss, weight gain, moodiness, insomnia, and libido. It is important to read the labels on cosmetics, skin care, and hair care. Look for companies that do not use potentially harmful ingredients. The Environmental Working Group is an organization that can help identify safe products. For example, use a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide rather than oxybenzone.

Try to eat organic foods as much as possible to reduce exposure to pesticides, chemicals, and other environmental toxins that can alter the natural processes of the body. Reduce sugar and refined carbohydrate intake, which can lead to high insulin levels, promoting inflammation and fat storage. Sugar contributes to the formation of advanced glycation end products, which damages cells and ages the body.

Eat plenty of antioxidant- and polyphenol-containing foods. Colorful fruits and vegetables are rich sources of these substances, which are essential for fighting oxidative stress and detoxifying the hundreds of harmful substances that are consumed and absorbed daily. Vitamin C helps maintain skin integrity and build collagen. Vitamin D is essential for bone health and immunity, including protection from skin cancer. Polyphenols in green tea, resveratrol in red wine, and carotenoids like astaxanthin from salmon are all excellent sources! In addition to their antioxidant properties, they also have been shown to offer ultraviolet protection from the inside.

Drinking plenty of water helps the body and skin to stay hydrated. Water helps to flush out the toxins the liver, lungs, skin, lymph nodes and kidneys are metabolizing and excreting! Get at least 25 to 35 grams of fiber daily to help the body excrete toxins and feed the good bacteria in the stomach. Known as the microbiome, these bacteria are critical for immunity, metabolism, and hormone regulation. Yogurt and fermented foods, like sauerkraut, are good sources of probiotics.

Aging cannot be stopped, but with a little help a hard work, clients can stall it, stay healthy, and feel good!

References
Guéniche, A., Phillippe, D., Bastien, P., Blum, S., Buyukpamukcu, E., &, CastielHigounenc, I. (2009). "Probiotics for photoprotection." Dermato-Endocrinology, 1(5), 275-279. doi:10.4161/derm.1.5.9849
Hayman, M. (2007). The Lifecycles of Women: Restoring Balance.
Nguyen, H., & Katta, R. (2015). Sugar Sag: Glycation and the Role of Diet in Aging Skin. Retrieved from http://skintherapyletter.com
Northrup, C. (2015). Goddesses never age: The secret prescription for radiance, vitality, and well-being. Eureka Books.
Liakou, A. I., Pappas, A., & Zouboulis, C. C. (2015). Discovering the Link Between Nutrition and Skin Aging. Textbook of Aging Skin, 1-6. doi:10.1007/978-3-642-27814-3_134-1
Pup, L., Mantovani, A., Cavaliere, C., Facchini, G., Luce, A., Sperlongano, P., & Berretta, M. (2016). Carcinogenetic mechanisms of endocrine disruptors in female cancers
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Schagen, S.K., Zampeli, V.A., Makrantonaki, E., & Zouboulis, C.C. (2012). "Discovering the Link between Nutrition and Skin Aging." Dermato-Endocrinology, 4(3), 298-307.
Safe Cosmetics. "Fragrance Safe Cosmetics."
safecosmetics.org