How the Gut Microbiome Influences Estrogen

1. How the Gut Microbiome Influences Estrogen The gut microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms located in the gastrointestinal tract. Recent research has shown that the gut microbiome plays a critical role in various physiological processes, including regulating the immune system, metabolism, and brain function. Additionally, emerging evidence has highlighted the role of the gut microbiome in the regulation of estrogen levels. Estrogen is a sex hormone that plays a crucial role in the reproductive system and has numerous other functions in the body. In a healthy state, the liver detoxifies excess estrogen through two phases commonly referred to as phase I and phase II metabolism. Phase I is responsible for converting estrogens into a form that phase II can then process. Phase II is responsible for binding the estrogen produced in phase I and encouraging elimination through daily bowel movements. If you do not have a daily bowel movement, only a portion of estrogen is eliminated from the body and the excess hormone goes back into circulation, which may lead to excess estrogen levels. Signs and symptoms of too much estrogen can include menstrual migraines, breast tenderness, PMS, fatigue, and more. The gut microbiome affects estrogen levels by modifying the metabolism of estrogen in the liver. The liver is responsible for converting estradiol, the primary form of estrogen, into inactive metabolites. However, certain gut bacteria can produce an enzyme called beta- glucuronidase, which can reverse this process and convert the inactive metabolites back into active estradiol. Elevated levels of beta-glucuronidase in the gut microbiome can lead to increased estrogen levels in the body. The gut microbiome can also influence the production of estrogen in the body. Research has shown that certain gut bacteria can produce a precursor to estrogen called estrone sulfate. Estrone sulfate can be converted into estradiol in other tissues, leading to increased estrogen

2. levels. Additionally, the gut microbiome can affect the production of other hormones that interact with estrogen, such as progesterone and testosterone. The gut microbiome’s influence on estrogen levels has numerous implications for human health. High estrogen levels have been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and other conditions. Therefore, an imbalance in the gut microbiome that leads to increased estrogen levels could have negative health consequences. Moreover, imbalances in the gut microbiome have been linked to various diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and diabetes. Emerging evidence suggests that these diseases may be related to changes in estrogen levels caused by alterations in the gut microbiome. In conclusion, the gut microbiome is an important factor that influences estrogen levels through various mechanisms. The impact of the gut microbiome on estrogen levels has numerous implications for human health, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome for overall well-being. The highly experienced functional medicine doctors at Interactive Health Clinic are committed in helping you reach optimal health and wellness with state of the art integrative medicine therapies. For further information or to schedule a consultation please contact Interactive Health Clinic at 425.361.7945 or visit https://interactivehealthclinic.com/ to learn more.