Can estrogen reduce ageing? Why you shouldn’t use supplements as a longevity hack because the internet says so

Does estrogen have beneficial effects in upregulating antioxidant and longevity-related genes in women?

Estrogen is a hormone that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes in women, including the regulation of reproductive function, bone health and cardiovascular health. Recently, researchers have also explored the potential beneficial effects of estrogen on the upregulation of antioxidant and longevity-related genes in women. Studies have already shown that estrogen can upregulate antioxidant genes such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, which can help protect against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, estrogen has been found to activate the Nrf2 signalling pathway, which plays a critical role in the regulation of antioxidant and detoxification genes. Furthermore, estrogen has been shown to upregulate longevity-related genes such as SIRT1 and FOXO3A, which are associated with improved mitochondrial function, reduced inflammation, and increased lifespan in animal models. These findings suggest that estrogen may have a protective effect on cellular ageing and age-related diseases.

However, it is important to note that the effects may vary depending on age, menopausal status and individual genetic make-up. More research is needed to determine the optimal approach to estrogen therapy for women’s health.

Do women age rapidly after menopause?

There is a common belief that women age rapidly after menopause but this is not entirely true. Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive phase, and it is a natural biological process that typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. During this time, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes, including a decrease in estrogen levels, which can lead to various symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. While these changes can be uncomfortable, they do not necessarily mean that women age more rapidly after menopause. In fact, ageing is a complex process that is influenced by many factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Women can take steps to promote healthy ageing, such as staying physically active, eating a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption and getting enough sleep.

It is also important to note that menopause does increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis, heart disease, thyroid dysfunction and diabetes and cognitive decline. However, these risks can be minimised through early detection and appropriate medical care.

Can women delay the onset of menopause with the help of estrogen and progesterone?

Menopause is a natural process that occurs in women when their ovaries stop producing eggs and the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone decreases. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help alleviate the symptoms of menopause, it cannot delay the onset of menopause. Estrogen and progesterone therapy, also known as HRT, can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and mood swings. The age at which menopause  age occurs is primarily determined by genetics and lifestyle factors.

It is important to note that HRT has risks and benefits, and it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Estrogen therapy has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, blood clots and stroke. However, the risks and benefits of HRT can vary depending on the individual, and a healthcare provider can help determine if it is appropriate for a woman based on her medical history and risk factors.

How does estrogen work on the human body?

Estrogen is produced primarily in the ovaries but is also produced in smaller amounts by the adrenal glands and other tissues. It functions by binding to specific receptors in various tissues and organs throughout the body. In women, estrogen plays a vital role in reproductive health, regulating the menstrual cycle and promoting the development of the female reproductive system. It also affects the growth and maintenance of bones, cardiovascular health, and brain function. In men, estrogen is produced in smaller quantities and plays a role in sexual function, bone health, and the maintenance of healthy body fat levels.

Estrogen works by binding to estrogen receptors located on cells throughout the body. Once bound, it can affect gene expression, leading to changes in protein synthesis and cellular function. Estrogen regulates the production and secretion of other hormones, such as progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH).

Its effects are complex and far-reaching, affecting everything from reproductive health to bone health and cardiovascular function. Understanding how estrogen works in the body is essential for maintaining good health and addressing any potential health problems that may arise due to hormonal imbalances.

Are women in India taking estrogen for longevity ?

There is no clear evidence that women in India are taking estrogen for the purpose of longevity because its use for longevity has not been well established. Instead of relying solely on hormone replacement therapy, it is recommended that women in India focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress reduction, and regular medical check-ups. These healthy habits can help promote longevity and improve overall health and well-being.

Do females live longer than males and are estrogens responsible for this protection against ageing?

It is a commonly observed phenomenon that females tend to live longer than males in many species, including humans. However, the reasons behind this difference are complex and multifactorial, and cannot be attributed solely to estrogen or any other single factor.

The relationship between estrogen and ageing is complex and not fully understood. While estrogen has been shown to have protective effects in some contexts, it may also have negative effects in others. For example, estrogen has been associated with an increased risk of certain types of cancer, like that of the breast, and may also increase the risk of blood clots and stroke in some individuals. In addition, there are many other factors that contribute to the difference in lifespan between males and females, such as differences in genetics, lifestyle factors and environmental exposures. For example, males tend to engage in riskier behaviours and have higher rates of smoking and alcohol consumption, which can increase the risk of premature death.

WHY DOCTOR WANGNOO

Dr Wangnoo is currently heading the Apollo Centre For Obesity, Diabetes and Endocrinology (ACODE). He has delivered lectures at various national and international conferences. He has been a key member of various advisory boards and national and international academic guideline-forming bodies. He was instrumental in establishing the Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Sciences at Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences in Srinagar.