Gut Health in Women

The impact of hormones on the gut

Increasing numbers of scientific studies reveal the close connection between hormonal balance and gut bacteria. Our partner, the Institut AllergoSan, has been researching women’s health for many years and continues to provide exciting new insights. We’ve summarized the current state of research and the most important findings for you.

The word hormone comes from ancient Greek and means “to drive” or “to excite.” Hormones are biochemical messengers produced by so-called endocrine glands and released directly into the bloodstream. This allows hormones to act on cells far away from where they are produced. They therefore function as important messengers in the body, with an even greater significance than science has recognized until now.

Microbiome and hormones in balance

Depending on the composition of the gut flora, certain hormones are produced directly in the gut. Research also suggests that the gut microbiome is closely linked to our hormonal system. Initial findings indicate that the microbiome plays a central role in regulating the body’s own hormones. As a result, the risk of developing hormone-related conditions may be influenced by gut health. One key area of focus is the regulation of estrogen. If a healthy microbiome is present, the body – especially the ovaries – produces the right amount of the enzyme ß-glucuronidase, which regulates estrogen levels. However, if the microbial balance is disturbed, the activity of this enzyme may be impaired. This imbalance has been linked to conditions such as breast cancer and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

There is therefore a close connection between the microbiome and hormones. Exactly what role the microbiome plays and how important it truly is still requires further research. In certain diseases, targeted use of probiotics could represent a new therapeutic option and may reduce or even prevent the need for other medications that often come with side effects.

Functions of estrogen

Estrogen carries out many vital functions in the body. It regulates fat storage, fertility, cardiovascular health, bone formation, and cell renewal. As women age, this regulation changes. After menopause, women have a higher likelihood of disruption in the estrobolome (the part of the microbiome linked to estrogen balance). Such disruptions increase the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Studies have also found that people with obesity, osteoporosis, or cardiovascular conditions often show an imbalanced gut flora. The link between these conditions and the estrobolome therefore seems very likely.

It will be exciting to see what future research will reveal. What is already clear is that gut health plays a crucial role for the entire body. Supporting your gut preventively with fasting programs and the right diet is certainly a wise choice.

Learn more about this topic here!