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Understanding Estrogen: Estrone, 17β-Estradiol, Estriol, Belly Fat and Menopause

Updated: Jun 14, 2024

Introduction

Estrogen is a family of hormones with several members, including estrone, 17β-estradiol, and estriol, each with distinct roles in the human body. This article explores the production and influence of estrone, 17β-estradiol, and estriol on fat distribution, as well as how these hormones are affected during menopause, including the shift from 17β-estradiol to estrone and the unique role of estriol.


1. Estrone, 17β-Estradiol, and Estriol Production

Estrone, 17β-estradiol, and estriol are three essential estrogen hormones produced in the body. These hormones are synthesized primarily in the ovaries, but they can also be produced in various tissues through a process called aromatization, where androgens are converted into estrogens.


2. Estrogen's Influence on Fat Distribution

Estrogens, including estrone, 17β-estradiol, and estriol, play a crucial role in regulating fat distribution in the body. Women typically have a higher percentage of subcutaneous fat (fat under the skin) and a lower percentage of visceral fat (fat around organs) compared to men. Estrogens help maintain this distribution.


3. Estrone, 17β-Estradiol, Estriol, and Fat Distribution

- Estrone: It contributes to fat distribution and helps preserve the subcutaneous fat layer, contributing to the characteristic fat distribution seen in women.

- 17β-Estradiol: This hormone is particularly potent and has a more pronounced influence on fat distribution. It helps maintain a healthy ratio of subcutaneous to visceral fat, promoting a feminine body shape.

- Estriol: Estriol is a unique estrogen primarily produced during pregnancy. Its role in fat distribution is less understood, but it is known for its role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy and supporting fetal development.


4. Shift in Hormone Production During Menopause

During menopause, there is a significant shift in hormonal production. Before menopause, 17β-estradiol is the predominant estrogen hormone, contributing to the maintenance of female secondary sexual characteristics and overall health.

However, as women enter and progress through menopause, ovarian function declines. This results in a reduction in the production of 17β-estradiol, the potent form of estrogen. Consequently, estrone becomes the more predominant estrogen hormone during menopause, with a decrease in estriol production.


5. Menopause and Fat Distribution

The hormonal changes during menopause can affect fat distribution. As 17β-estradiol levels decline, there can be an increase in visceral fat, including belly fat. The shift from 17β-estradiol to estrone as the predominant hormone may contribute to changes in body composition, and the role of estriol in this context is still an area of ongoing research.


Conclusion


Estrone, 17β-estradiol, and estriol are vital members of the estrogen hormone family, each contributing to fat distribution and overall health. Understanding how these hormones are produced and their influence on the body, especially during menopause, and the unique role of estriol, is essential for managing changes in body composition and overall health during this life stage.




By Dr Purity Carr

GP & Menopause Doctor

Harvey, WA

 
 
 

Comments

Welcome to Purity Health Women’s Menopause and Wellbeing Centre™

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At Purity Health, we believe in living life to the fullest. Dr Purity Menopause Clinic, in association with Samy Medical Group, is dedicated to providing safe, evidence based information and care in perimenopause, menopause, histamine related conditions, and metabolic health.

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We recognise that there are many myths and misunderstandings surrounding menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy, HRT. One commonly repeated belief is that oestrogen causes breast cancer. This is an oversimplification and does not reflect the full body of evidence.

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Here is the truth.

At Dr Purity Carr Menopause Clinic, we are committed to providing accurate information and personalised care.

Follow us on #drpuritycarr

Extensive evidence shows that for women within 10 years of menopause or under the age of 60, the benefits of HRT generally outweigh the risks.

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For women who start HRT during perimenopause or within 10 years of menopause, there is often no need to stop purely based on age. Ongoing use should be individualised and guided by clinical review.

Even for women who are further beyond menopause or over 60, starting HRT may still be considered under the guidance of a knowledgeable practitioner, with careful assessment of risks and benefits.

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A Broader Approach to Women’s Health

Dr Purity is a General Practitioner with a special interest in menopause care, taking a holistic, systems based approach to women’s health.

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In addition to menopause, her work now includes:

Hormone health, including perimenopause and menopause
Histamine related conditions, including suspected mast cell activation patterns
Metabolic health, including weight management, insulin resistance, and inflammation
The interaction between hormones, the immune system, and the nervous system

Many women experience symptoms that do not sit neatly within one system. Hormones do not operate in isolation. There is often an overlap between hormonal changes, histamine activity, and metabolic dysfunction. This integrated approach allows for a deeper understanding of symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep, weight gain, brain fog, and chronic inflammation.

 

Dr Purity’s Focus on Care

Dr Purity focuses specifically on menopause, histamine balance, and metabolic health. She works to identify underlying drivers of symptoms and supports women through evidence based, personalised care.

Please note that Dr Purity does not replace your general practitioner. The experienced doctors at Samy Medical, part of the same medical system as Purity Health, are available to manage your broader healthcare needs.

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