Risk Factors of Having High or Low Estrogen Levels in Men

Published: 2025-05-20

Updated: 2025-05-22

4 mins

While it’s often labeled a “female hormone,” estrogen plays important roles in the male body, too. It helps support bone health, brain function, and even sexual health.

That said, balance is key. Too little or too much estrogen in men can lead to issues like low libido, mood changes, weight gain, or even increased risk of certain health conditions. Like testosterone, estrogen needs to stay within a healthy range for the body to function at its best.

Do Males Produce Estrogen?

Yes, men produce estrogen. In males, it’s a natural and necessary part of hormonal health.

Estrogen is mainly produced when testosterone is converted by an enzyme called aromatase. This process happens in various tissues, including fat, brain, and even the testes. So while men don’t produce estrogen in the same way women do, their bodies still generate it through this conversion process.

Understanding male estrogen levels is essential, since both too much and too little can cause health problems.

What Does Estrogen Do to Men?

While testosterone tends to get most of the attention, estrogen quietly supports several key systems in the male body.

One of the main effects of estrogen on the male body is maintaining bone density. Without enough estrogen, bones can become weak and brittle over time. Estrogen also plays a role in brain function, influencing mood, memory, and cognitive sharpness. And when it comes to sexual health, this hormone helps regulate libido and contributes to erectile function.

So while estrogen is often labeled a “female hormone,” it’s essential for male health, too – just in smaller, carefully balanced amounts.

Low Estrogen in Men

Low estrogen in men happens when the body doesn’t produce or convert enough estrogen from testosterone. This can result from natural aging, certain medications, underlying hormonal imbalances, or conditions that affect testosterone levels – since testosterone is the source of most male estrogen.

When estrogen drops too low, it can cause noticeable physical and emotional changes. Common low estrogen symptoms men may experience include persistent fatigue, a drop in sex drive, mood swings or irritability, and weakened bones due to decreased bone density. Over time, low estrogen can contribute to more serious issues like osteoporosis and cognitive decline.

Even though estrogen is often overlooked in men’s health, maintaining healthy levels is just as important as managing testosterone.

High Estrogen in Men

High estrogen in men can develop when the body produces too much estrogen or when testosterone is more readily converted to estrogen than it should be. Common causes include obesity (since fat tissue increases aromatase activity), aging, certain medications, and hormone imbalances that affect testosterone-to-estrogen conversion.

The symptoms of high estrogen in men can vary, but often include physical and emotional changes. Some of the most common signs of high estrogen in men are gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue), erectile dysfunction, low energy, irritability or mood swings, and weight gain – particularly around the hips and thighs.

If left unaddressed, high estrogen levels can disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to long-term health issues, including infertility and cardiovascular risks.

Health Risks of Hormonal Imbalance

Whether it’s too much or too little, an estrogen imbalance can create serious health concerns for men.

With high estrogen in men, the most significant risks include infertility – often tied to disrupted testosterone levels and reduced sperm production – as well as an increased risk of blood clots and cardiovascular problems. Elevated estrogen can also worsen metabolic issues and lead to further hormonal disruption.

On the other hand, low estrogen in men isn’t without its own complications. Chronically low levels can weaken bones and raise the risk of osteoporosis, making fractures more likely with age. Estrogen also plays a role in brain health, so low levels may contribute to anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders.

Maintaining proper hormonal balance is key to long-term health and quality of life.

How to Lower Estrogen in Men

There are several effective strategies – both natural and medical – for bringing estrogen levels back into balance.

Lifestyle changes are often the first step. Weight loss is especially important, since excess body fat increases aromatase activity, which converts testosterone to estrogen. Regular resistance training can help boost testosterone naturally, while limiting alcohol reduces liver strain, allowing the body to metabolize hormones more efficiently.

In more persistent cases, medical treatment may be needed. Options may include aromatase inhibitors to slow down estrogen production or testosterone therapy to rebalance hormone levels – though these should only be used under medical supervision.

What Foods Raise Estrogen in Men?

When people ask what foods raise estrogen in men, they’re usually referring to foods that contain phytoestrogens – plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. These are most commonly found in soy-based products like tofu, soy milk, and edamame, as well as flaxseeds, sesame seeds, and certain legumes.

For most men, eating these foods occasionally isn’t a problem. In fact, they can be part of a healthy, balanced diet. But for men who already have elevated estrogen levels or are prone to hormonal imbalances, consistently consuming large amounts of phytoestrogen-rich foods may contribute to further estrogen dominance.

If you're concerned about estrogen levels, it's worth being mindful of your diet while also looking at other contributing factors like weight, alcohol intake, and hormone health.

Balancing Estrogen Naturally

Estrogen isn’t just a “female hormone” – and in men, balance is everything. Both high and low levels can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and long-term health risks, from fatigue and low libido to bone loss and cardiovascular concerns.

If you suspect an imbalance, don’t guess. The best way to approach male estrogen health is by working with a healthcare provider who can assess your symptoms, run lab tests, and guide you toward the right treatment – whether that involves lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, or medication.

The goal isn’t to eliminate estrogen, but to keep it in the healthy range that supports overall well-being.

How Rex MD Can Help

Balanced estrogen levels are important for promoting your overall health. If you’re feeling off – whether it’s low energy, reduced sex drive, mood changes, or other signs of hormonal imbalance – it could be time to take a closer look at your testosterone levels, too.

The Rex MD Testosterone Program may help you feel like yourself again. If you qualify, your provider will help you determine the best treatment for balancing your hormone levels.

To find out if the program is right for you, answer a few questions about your symptoms and medical history. Your provider will order lab work for you and determine if you’re eligible for treatment options based on your results. 

Then, you’ll be able to schedule a virtual call with your Rex MD-affiliated physician.

Get started today.