Estrogens – Women
Estrogens are a related class of hormones that are produced largely by the ovaries – and placenta during pregnancy – but they are also produced by secondary sources such as liver and breast tissue, adrenal glands, and fat cells. Estrogens exist in significantly higher levels in women of reproductive age than in younger or older women, or men. As you might expect, estrogen hormones are responsible for the development of sexual characteristics such as breasts, and regulating the menstrual cycle. But they are also heavily involved in a variety of other functions like bone formation, lowering the risk of heart disease, various anti-inflammatory activities, and helping with protein synthesis.
