Is Supplementing a Band-Aid Approach?
When we think about medications, we often hear about them being used as a "Band-Aid"—something that manages symptoms but doesn't necessarily address the root cause. But did you know that supplements can sometimes be no different?
Understanding the Root Cause of Imbalances
Take estrogen dominance, for example. There are two primary types:
Excess Estrogen Overall – When there is too much estrogen in the body.
Estrogen Dominance Due to Low Progesterone – When estrogen levels are high relative to progesterone, even if estrogen itself isn’t excessive.
Depending on which type of estrogen dominance someone has, the approach to balancing hormones should be different. However, many people reach for a supplement like DIM (Diindolylmethane) without knowing whether it’s actually appropriate for their specific case.
When Supplements Like DIM Could Make Things Worse
I often see clients taking DIM to manage estrogen dominance, but without properly identifying the underlying imbalance, this can sometimes do more harm than good.
If someone has estrogen dominance due to low progesterone, taking DIM could actually worsen the imbalance because it helps clear estrogen but does nothing to support progesterone production.
If someone has excess estrogen, DIM might help, but it still doesn't address why estrogen is high in the first place.
What’s Driving the Estrogen Imbalance?
Instead of just supplementing, it’s crucial to ask:
Is gut health a factor? The gut microbiome plays a major role in estrogen metabolism. If gut bacteria are imbalanced, estrogen may not be properly broken down and eliminated.
Is the liver overwhelmed? The liver is responsible for detoxifying excess estrogen. Poor liver function or congestion can slow this process down.
Are elimination pathways supported? If estrogen isn't being excreted effectively through the bowels, it can be reabsorbed and contribute to high levels in the body.
Are xenoestrogens an issue? Toxins from plastics, personal care products, and environmental pollutants can mimic estrogen and contribute to hormonal imbalances.
Other Examples of Supplements as a Band-Aid Approach
DIM isn’t the only example of a supplement being used without addressing the root cause. Here are a few more:
Melatonin for Sleep Issues – While melatonin can help with occasional sleep disturbances, it doesn’t address why someone isn’t sleeping well. The root cause could be high cortisol levels, blood sugar imbalances, poor sleep hygiene, or gut issues.
Magnesium for Constipation – Magnesium citrate is often used as a laxative, but chronic constipation could be due to poor gut motility, dehydration, fiber intake, or even thyroid dysfunction.
Probiotics for Gut Issues – While probiotics can be helpful, they’re not a one-size-fits-all fix. Some people have bacterial overgrowth (like SIBO), where adding more bacteria can actually make things worse.
Biotin for Hair Loss – Many people take biotin for hair growth, but hair loss can stem from iron deficiency, thyroid imbalances, stress, or poor nutrient absorption.
B12 for Fatigue – Low B12 can contribute to fatigue, but blindly supplementing without knowing why levels are low (poor absorption, gut health issues, or lack of intake) may not fully resolve the problem.
Supplements Have a Time and Place—But Not Alone
Supplements can be useful tools, but they should never be used blindly. In my practice, we use them strategically—always paired with an investigation into the root cause of the imbalance and complemented by diet and lifestyle strategies.
For estrogen dominance, a personalized approach might include:
Nutrient-dense foods that support hormone balance (e.g., cruciferous vegetables, fiber-rich foods, healthy fats).
Lifestyle changes that reduce toxin exposure (e.g., switching to non-toxic personal care products and minimizing plastic use).
Digestive support to enhance estrogen clearance (e.g., probiotics, fiber, and adequate hydration).
Stress management to support progesterone levels, if the issue is an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone.
The Bottom Line
Supplements are not one-size-fits-all solutions. They should be used as part of a bigger picture that considers diet, lifestyle, and individual biochemistry. If you're struggling with hormone imbalances, working with a practitioner who takes a root-cause approach is the best way to get lasting results.
If you're ready to get to the root of your hormone imbalances and take a personalized approach to your health, let’s work together!
I offer 1:1 coaching to help you create a tailored plan that supports your unique needs.
