Your gut and your hormones might seem like two separate worlds at first glance, but they are much more closely connected than you think. If you suffer from mood swings, fatigue, bloating, or an irregular cycle, it's quite possible that these symptoms are not only hormonal but also originate from your gut. In this blog, we'll explain exactly how this works and what you can do to support your hormones through your gut.
What do your gut and hormones have to do with each other?
Your gut forms an important communication center in your body. The intestinal wall contains millions of nerve cells (the enteric nervous system) that constantly exchange signals with your brain and your endocrine system.
But it goes beyond communication alone:
● Your gut also produces hormones and neurotransmitters, such as serotonin (your 'happiness hormone').
● Your liver and gut work together to break down and excrete used hormones (such as estrogen).
● Your gut flora (the bacteria living in your intestines) influence inflammation levels, blood sugar, and even your cycle.
The estrogen-gut link: what is the 'estrobolome'?
One of the most fascinating connections between your gut and hormones is the estrobolome: a specific collection of gut bacteria responsible for estrogen metabolism.
When your body produces estrogen, this hormone is converted into an inactive form by the liver after use and excreted into the intestines. This is where the estrobolome comes into play. The bacteria in this group produce enzymes, such as β-glucuronidase, which can determine whether this estrogen is excreted in the stool or reactivated and reabsorbed into the bloodstream.
When your gut flora is healthy, this process runs smoothly. But if there is dysbiosis (an imbalance in your gut microbiome), the estrobolome can become overactive. This means that too much estrogen is reabsorbed into your body, which can lead to hormonal complaints such as:
● Heavy or prolonged periods
● Tender or painful breasts
● Headaches or migraines
● Irritability or mood swings
● Weight gain around the hips and abdomen
A healthy gut flora, and a well-functioning estrobolome, are therefore essential for the excretion of excess estrogen and a healthy hormone balance.
How can you support your gut?
There are many ways to improve your gut health, such as:
1. Eat a varied and fiber-rich diet
Think vegetables, fruits, and legumes. These feed the 'good' bacteria and increase diversity in your microbiome.
2. Choose fermented products more often
Sauerkraut, pickles, kombucha, and kefir contain living bacteria (probiotics) that strengthen your gut flora.
3. Limit artificial sweeteners
Sweeteners like aspartame can stimulate the growth of harmful bacteria. Opt for natural alternatives or avoid sweet flavors as much as possible.
4. Add prebiotic foods
Dietary fibers from bananas, artichokes, asparagus, oats, and apples feed healthy bacteria.
5. Eat polyphenols
Green tea, olive oil, berries, and dark chocolate contain polyphenols that stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria.
Gain insight into your gut health with a comprehensive gut examination
Do you want to literally take a look inside your gut? With our comprehensive gut examination you receive a stool test that you can perform yourself at home, in complete privacy.
In the lab, your sample will then be examined for, among other things, the diversity of your gut bacteria, the presence of yeasts and fungi, inflammatory markers, digestive capacity, and immune activity in the gut.
You will receive a clear report and personalized advice from one of our therapists. This way, you not only gain insight but also practical tools to improve your gut health naturally. Make an appointment here
Summary
Your hormones and gut are inextricably linked. If you truly want to tackle your hormonal complaints at the root, gut health cannot be overlooked. Whether it's mood swings, menstrual problems, or bloating: your gut often plays a bigger role than you think. Support your gut flora with the right diet and lifestyle, and consider a comprehensive gut examination for a targeted approach to your complaints.
