Also known as female sex hormone, estrogens are present in both males and
females, although they are more abundant in women. Perhaps the most popular
amongst all hormones, it refers to a cluster of hormones with the same chemical
makeup and they have a significant impact on the organs, cells, and the overall
growth and functioning of the human body. These hormones are formed not only
in the ovaries, but also in adrenal glands and fat tissues. In the rest of this article,
you will know more about the different functions of estrogen in the human body,
and hence, providing you with a better understanding on how it is essential to
one’s health.
Physical Development of the Body
One of the most widely researched effects of estrogens on women’s health deals
with how they have an impact on physical appearance. This is comparable to
the way by which testosterone works amongst men, which is responsible for manly
characteristics, such as muscle mass. Estrogen, on the other hand, is mainly
responsible for defining a woman’s body an in making its physical structure
significantly different from that of a man.
The following are some of the effects of estrogen on the physical body of a
woman:
Having lesser and finer body hair
Preserving bone density, which makes shoulders narrower and pelvis broader
Shorter vocal cords resulting into a higher-pitched voice
Reduces muscle mass
Accelerates the ability of the body to burn fat
Develops fuller breasts
Production of milk
Brain Functioning and Development
Aside from the effects of estrogen on the physical health of women, several
studies in the past have resulted into empirical evidences showing its effects on
mental health. For instance, it has been claimed that estrogen is instrumental in
the delaying of memory loss, which often happens as a result of aging. In as early
as 1988, this has already been proven in a study by Barbara Sherwin. Women who
had their uterus and ovaries removed have been the subject of the investigation.
Those who have been given estrogen responded better on verbal tests and
showed better cognitive functions. Aside from delaying memory loss, it also helps
in the modification of endorphins in the brain, or what are also known as happy
hormones, making it able to provide favorable effects on mood.
Bone Health and Formation
As it has been earlier mentioned, estrogen is responsible for the preservation of
bone density and in making women appear to be smaller as against men. More
than that, estrogen is also claimed to be instrumental in preserving the strength of
the bones. This is possible by working together with calcium and Vitamin D,
amongst other vitamins and minerals. Once the level of estrogen in the body
become slower, which happens as a natural effect of aging, it also accelerates
the breaking down of bones.
Skin Health
Most of the concentrations of estrogen in the body of a woman can be seen on
the face and the skin above the thighs and breasts. In a study published at the
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, it has been reiterated that estrogen
can reverse the visible signs of aging. It is believed that the hormone can aid in
increasing skin elasticity and giving it a youthful glow in spite of growing older. In relation to its positive effects on skin health, the same study also supports how
estrogen can speed up the healing of wounds.
Cardiovascular Health
An ample amount of studies in the past have also supported claims with regards
to how estrogen can prove to be an agent of a better heart health and in the
prevention of a wide array of cardiovascular diseases. One research from the
University of London has revealed that this is possible as the hormone allows the
immune system to have a better defense. This can also make a good explanation
on why heart diseases are more commonly experienced by men as opposed to
women. There is also a positive correlation between estrogen levels in the body
and the behavior of white blood cells, which are essential in fighting infections
that can negatively affect cardiovascular health. These white blood cells will stick
to the blood vessels and will prevent any damage that will be bad for your heart.
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