Estradiol (E2)
What This Test Measures
Primary estrogen; bone, brain, cardiovascular, reproductive health
Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range
The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.
Gabriel's Take
Men need SOME estradiol (24-39) for bone and brain health, but >50 = estrogen dominance (fatigue, gynecomastia, ED). Women's levels depend on cycle timing: Gabriel's bands are 40-60 on cycle days 2-5 and 100-211 in the mid-luteal phase (5-9 days after ovulation). Balance is key.
When This Test Is High
Men: estrogen dominance, aromatase excess; Women: varies by cycle, PCOS
When This Test Is Low
Men: low libido, bone loss; Women: menopause, ovarian dysfunction
Related Conditions
Estrogen dominance, PCOS, menopause, osteoporosis
Recommended Follow-Up
Men: read with testosterone; aromatase inhibitors are a prescriber's decision, not a way to force estradiol into a band; Women: evaluate cycle, PCOS, menopause