After your hormones are metabolized in the liver, some of the estrogen (known as conjugated estrogen) is excreted into the bile and dumped into the small intestine.

The bacteria in your gut (the microbiome) play an important role in regulating circulating estrogens. These estrogen-metabolizing bacteria are referred to as the “estrobolome”, and they secrete an enzyme called β–glucuronidase which breaks down the conjugated estrogen, allowing estrogen to be reabsorbed by the gut and delivered into the bloodstream. If there is an imbalance in the gut bacteria (referred to as dysbiosis), there can be an abundance of β-glucuronidase producing bacteria, which leads to elevated levels of circulating estrogens. On the other hand, a lack of microbial diversity can result in lowered β -glucuronidase activity, leading to lower estrogen levels. This becomes of interest in post-menopausal women who already have naturally low estrogen. We know that low levels of estrogen have an impact on bone health, cognitive health, gut health and women’s health.

While further research is needed to clearly understand how modulation of the gut microbiome can influence estrogen driven disease, we know that the gut is important for hormone metabolism.

*** Information in this video is provided for informational purposes only. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information on any product label or packaging. Do not use the information in this video for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal supplements or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly.

References
1. Baker, J. M., Al-Nakkash, L., & Herbst-Kralovetz, M. M. (2017). Estrogen–gut microbiome axis: physiological and clinical implications. Maturitas, 103, 45-53.
2. Aubertin-Leheudre M, Gorbach S, Woods M, Dwyer JT, Goldin B, Adlercreutz H. Fat/fiber intakes and sex hormones in healthy premenopausal women in the USA. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2008;112: 32–9.
3. Recommended Daily Fibre Intake. (2019, April 08). Retrieved June 30, 2020, from https://cdhf.ca/health-lifestyle/reco...