The Oestrobolome: The connection between the gut and hormonal health
Our body's ecosystem is a marvelously complex web of interconnected systems, each playing a vital role in our overall health. Among these systems, the oestrobolome, a term coined to describe the collection of gut bacteria involved in oestrogen metabolism, is gaining significant attention. The oestrobolome not only influences circulating oestrogen levels but also plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance.
The oestrobolome refers to the collective community of gut bacteria that aids in the metabolism of oestrogen. These bacteria possess enzymes capable of breaking down oestrogen into metabolites that can be more easily eliminated from the body. When the oestrobolome functions optimally, it helps maintain appropriate levels of oestrogen, preventing both excess and deficiency.
The Impact of Oestrogen Dominance
Oestrogen dominance occurs when the levels of oestrogen in the body outweigh the levels of progesterone, its counterpart hormone. This hormonal imbalance can lead to a range of symptoms, including menstrual irregularities, mood swings, weight gain, breast tenderness, fatigue, and decreased libido. Long-term oestrogen dominance may also increase the risk of certain cancers, such as breast and uterine cancer.
Gut Symptoms and Imbalanced Oestrobolome
The gut often serves as an early warning system for imbalances in the body, including issues related to the oestrobolome. Some gut symptoms that may indicate an issue with the oestrobolome include bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, and overall digestive discomfort. These symptoms suggest an imbalance in the gut bacteria, potentially affecting oestrogen metabolism and clearance.
Assessing Oestrobolome Issues
When evaluating the health and function of the oestrobolome, certain testing methods and markers can provide valuable insights. These assessments can help identify potential imbalances, including issues related to Beta-glucuronidase, an enzyme involved in oestrogen metabolism.
Here are some common testing methods and markers used to assess the oestrobolome:
Comprehensive Stool Analysis: A comprehensive stool analysis is a non-invasive test that examines the composition of gut bacteria, including the oestrobolome. This analysis provides information about the diversity and abundance of different bacterial species, helping to identify imbalances or dysbiosis. The test can also measure the presence of Beta-glucuronidase, an enzyme responsible for deconjugating oestrogen metabolites and potentially leading to increased oestrogen reabsorption.
Organic Acid Testing: Organic acid testing (OAT) is a urine test that measures the byproducts of microbial metabolism. This test can assess the activity of the oestrobolome by examining specific metabolites related to oestrogen metabolism, such as 2-hydroxyestrone and 16-alpha-hydroxyestrone. An imbalanced ratio between these metabolites may indicate altered oestrogen metabolism.
Hormone Testing: Measuring hormone levels through blood, saliva, or urine tests can provide information about oestrogen and progesterone balance. Although these tests do not directly assess the oestrobolome, they can help identify hormonal imbalances associated with oestrogen dominance. In the context of the oestrobolome, it is important to assess not only the levels of oestrogen but also its metabolites using DUTCH testing.
Beta-Glucuronidase Activity: Beta-glucuronidase is an enzyme that cleaves the glucuronide conjugates from oestrogen metabolites, allowing them to be reabsorbed instead of being eliminated from the body. Elevated beta-glucuronidase activity may lead to increased levels of active oestrogen and contribute to hormonal imbalances. Testing for beta-glucuronidase activity can be done using a stool sample or a urinary assay.
Supporting the Oestrobolome
Fiber-rich Foods: Including a variety of fibrous foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can support a healthy oestrobolome. Fiber acts as a prebiotic, providing nourishment to beneficial gut bacteria.
Fermented Foods: Consuming fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and yogurt can introduce beneficial bacteria into the gut and support a diverse and balanced oestrobolome.
Cruciferous Vegetables: Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts contain compounds known as indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane, which promote healthy oestrogen metabolism.
Healthy Fats: Including sources of healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, nuts, and seeds can provide essential nutrients for hormone production and balance.
Stress Management: Chronic stress can disrupt the gut microbiome and oestrogen metabolism. Engaging in stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, and regular exercise can help support a healthy oestrobolome.
Factors Contributing to Imbalance
Several factors can disrupt the delicate balance of the oestrobolome, including:
Poor Diet: A diet high in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats can negatively impact the gut bacteria, leading to imbalances in the oestrobolome.
Antibiotic Use: While antibiotics are sometimes necessary, their overuse can disrupt the gut microbiome, potentially affecting oestrogen metabolism.
Environmental Toxins: Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in plastics, pesticides, and personal care products can interfere with oestrogen metabolism and disrupt the oestrobolome.
Hormonal Birth Control: Some studies suggest that hormonal birth control methods may influence the composition of the gut microbiome, potentially affecting oestrogen metabolism.
The oestrobolome and its influence on oestrogen metabolism are emerging areas of research, highlighting the intricate relationship between our gut bacteria and hormonal balance. By prioritizing a diverse, fiber-rich diet, incorporating fermented foods, managing stress, and minimizing exposure to disruptive factors, we can support the health of our oestrobolome. Remember, a harmonious oestrobolome contributes to overall well-being and may play a significant role in maintaining optimal hormonal health.
If you would like more information on this topic, or need some serious hormonal support, the Well Balanced Woman Course is for you! A 6 week online course, at DIY pace with support of a Private Facebook Group AND the added bonus of being able to come on as a JWN new patient.
For more information: