Yes, scientific studies suggest that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, can reduce prolactin levels, particularly by inhibiting the growth and hormone secretion of pituitary tumor cells (prolactinomas). Curcumin has shown potential in suppressing prolactin release and enhancing the effects of standard medications like bromocriptine, though research also points to complex interactions and potential for increased prolactin in certain contexts (like in stressed mice), highlighting the need for more human trials.
In studies using GH3 and MMQ cells, high concentrations of curcumin may also inhibit the excessive secretion of prolactin and growth hormone (16).
Take Vitamin E and Vitamin B6 Supplements
Adding 300 mg of Vitamin E supplements to your diet may help reduce elevated prolactin levels.
Large amounts of turmeric might interfere with the effects of estrogen. Taking turmeric along with estrogen might decrease the effects of estrogens. Some estrogen pills include conjugated equine estrogens (Premarin), ethinyl estradiol, estradiol, and others.
Herbs, including fenugreek, fennel seeds, and red clover.
Vitamin E And Vitamin B6 Supplements. Doctors often prescribe Vitamin E and Vitamin B6 supplements to those detected with a lower prolactin level, as Vitamin B6 is necessary for dopamine production. Vitamin E is said to be naturally capable of lowering prolactin levels in the blood.
Vitamin D deficiency affected 59.7 % of participants. Median prolactin levels were higher in vitamin D-sufficient than in deficient patients. Serum 25(OH)D correlated positively with prolactin and remained significant after adjustment.
Large amounts of turmeric might interfere with the effects of estrogen. Taking turmeric along with estrogen might decrease the effects of estrogens. Some estrogen pills include conjugated equine estrogens (Premarin), ethinyl estradiol, estradiol, and others.
People with diabetes should also be aware that turmeric can lower blood sugar, he added. Dr. Lim also recommends that women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for hormone-sensitive cancers and people with gallstones or kidney stones avoid taking turmeric supplements.
Here are six estrogen-positive foods to avoid:
Supplements like vitex, magnesium, vitamin B6, and zinc can all help lower prolactin levels. You can also try lifestyle changes like getting enough sleep, managing stress, and reducing alcohol consumption.
Ashwagandha root extract supplementation was also associated with a statistically significant increase in serum testosterone levels compared to placebo, whereas non-significant changes in serum prolactin levels were observed in both groups.
After a 16-week treatment period, the vB6 group showed a 68.1% reduction in serum prolactin levels (from 95.52 ± 6.30 μg/L to 30.43 ± 18.65 μg/L) while the ARI group showed only a 37.4% reduction (from 89.07 ± 3.59 μg/L to 55.78 ± 7.39 μg/L). During weeks 1–4, both treatments reduced prolactin similarly.
This dose of curcumin is not completely harmless, however, as human studies have shown that curcumin at doses ranging from 0.9 to 3.6 g day−1 for 1–4 months originates some adverse effects including nausea and diarrhea and causes an increase in serum alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase.
In Turmeric Extract treatment group progesterone, oestrogen, and FSH levels increased significantly (p = 0.004), (p = 0.001) and (p = 0.0002) respectively.
Increased prolactin is also seen in lactation, pregnancy, and the post-partum state. Multiple medications can also increase prolactin levels. These include estrogens, dopamine blockers/antagonists, some stomach acid reducers, opiates, some high blood pressure medications, anti-depressants, and anti-psychotics.
Supplements Not To Mix with Turmeric
“Like other colorful plant-based foods, turmeric is rich in phytonutrients that may protect the body by neutralizing free radicals (pollution, sunlight) and shielding the cells from damage.” Diets rich in plant-based foods are associated with prevention of medical conditions such as cancer and heart disease.
Turmeric appears to have become the most common cause of clinically apparent, herbal-related liver injury in the United States. While most cases are attributed to highly bioavailable forms of curcumin, cases also have been described with use of unadulterated ground turmeric powder and even with turmeric herbal teas.
Research shows curcumin may influence hormone levels. It can modulate estrogen activity, support progesterone production, and help balance androgens in conditions like PCOS.
Foods that lower and decrease and flush excess estrogen levels quickly include cruciferous vegetables, flaxseeds, soy, green tea, berries, and other foods.
We've found strong evidence that ginger can increase estrogen levels while decreasing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), helping restore hormonal balance. Clinical trials comparing ginger to placebos consistently demonstrate its effectiveness for managing physical symptoms.
These results show that vitamin E treatment lowers prolactin levels in uremic hemodialysis patients. This might be due to inhibition of central prolactin secretion.
The most common cause is a prolactinoma, a benign (noncancerous) tumor in your pituitary gland. Certain health conditions and medications can also cause hyperprolactinemia.
Foods that lower prolactin levels
While there are no specific foods indicated to reduce elevated prolactin levels, a balanced and nutrient-rich diet can positively impact hormone levels. Foods rich in vitamin B6, such as fish, chicken, bananas, and avocados, for example.