Let’s talk about the ‘Gut-Hormone’ connection

You may have heard of the phrase

"Disease begins in the gut" ...

Well it appears that it's true!

One key function of the gut when it comes to hormone health is coined the 'estrobolome'. To put it simply, this refers to a collection of different bacteria in the gut which help to activate estrogen via an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase. If the bugs in the gut are 'out of whack', this enzyme will be too low or too high...directly affecting hormone levels in the body and leading to hormonal imbalance. 

That means that gut dysfunction could be a leading driving cause of

PMS + Endometriosis + PCOS + Infertility + Weight gain + Breast cancer

Women with endometriosis and estrogen dominant cancers generally have larger numbers of beta-glucuronidase producing bacteria. This elevated level of estrogen, or 'estrogen dominance' can drive the endometrial adhesions and fibroids. 

Women with PCOS have lowered beta-glucuronidase producing bacteria and an increase in the synthesis of androgens such as testosterone and androstenedione. This hormonal imbalance directly affects the HPO axis (the communication of FSH and LH signals from the brain to ovaries) required for regular ovulation and a healthy menstrual cycle. 

Gut testing via functional pathology (stool sample) to detect bacterial overgrowths, deficiencies in beneficial bacteria, current level of beta-glucuronidase, inflammation + other markers of gut dysfunction is one of the best ways to get to the root cause of your 'Gut-hormone' issues. 

Want to know more about functional pathology testing? Pop your questions in the comments box below and I will get back to you :)