
Does black rice contain estrogen?
I am a 50-year-old woman. My menstruation has become irregular in the past six months. I heard that black rice may help regulate menstrual cycles, but I am concerned that its estrogen content might affect my test results. I cook black rice porridge daily, but I am unsure whether it is safe.

Under normal circumstances, black rice does not contain human estrogen, but it may contain phytoestrogens. Estrogen is divided into animal hormones and plant hormones, such as soy isoflavones. Black rice is a nutrient-rich grain whose main components are starch, dietary fiber, and trace elements; it does not contain animal hormones. Additionally, black rice contains various vitamins, such as vitamin B, vitamin E, and folic acid, as well as abundant minerals, such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium. Black rice is also rich in antioxidants, which help slow the aging process and protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Certain phytoestrogens, such as lignans, may exist in trace amounts, but their biological activity is much lower than that of human estrogen and generally does not significantly affect endocrine indicators. Phytoestrogens have a bidirectional regulatory effect and may help alleviate menopausal symptoms, although the specific effects vary among individuals.
It is recommended to adjust intake according to individual conditions. If hormone levels need to be monitored, inform your doctor about dietary habits in advance, and reduce black rice consumption temporarily before testing if necessary. Maintain a balanced diet daily, as combining black rice with legumes, vegetables, and other foods can enhance nutrient absorption. If serious endocrine disorders exist, medical testing should be used to guide treatment plans, rather than relying solely on specific foods for regulation.