Aromatase Inhibition

Aromatase activity rises with adiposity, age, insulin resistance and alcohol intake. In men, high aromatisation shows up as a low testosterone-to-oestradiol ratio, gynaecomastia and low libido; in women, peripheral aromatisation is a key oestrogen source after menopause and is the target of prescription aromatase inhibitors in hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. Oestradiol is not simply undesirable — men need adequate levels for bone density, lipids and libido, so aggressive suppression is harmful.

Reduce visceral fat: adipose tissue is the main extragonadal aromatase site, and each meaningful drop in body fat lowers conversion. Limit alcohol, which both induces aromatase and impairs hepatic oestrogen clearance. Correct zinc deficiency (15-30 mg/day elemental; do not exceed 40 mg long-term without copper). Optional additions with weaker evidence: grape seed extract 100-300 mg/day, DIM 100-200 mg/day, and cruciferous vegetables daily. Never self-prescribe pharmaceutical aromatase inhibitors — crashing oestradiol causes joint pain, bone loss and lipid deterioration.