Hormones influence almost every part of your body. They help regulate the menstrual cycle, metabolism, appetite, sleep, stress response and reproductive health. But hormones do not work alone. There is growing interest in the relationship between hormones and the gut microbiome, particularly when it comes to female health.
Your gut and hormones communicate
Your gut contains trillions of microorganisms that interact with the food you eat and produce a huge range of compounds. At the same time, hormones can influence the gut environment, including gut movement and the composition of the microbiome. So the relationship goes in both directions.
The oestrogen connection
One area researchers are particularly interested in is oestrogen. After oestrogen has carried out its role in the body, it is processed by the liver and eventually reaches the gut before leaving the body. Certain gut bacteria can interact with oestrogen metabolites and influence whether they are reactivated and returned to circulation. The collection of bacteria involved in this process is sometimes referred to as the estrobolome. This is a fascinating area of research, particularly in relation to women's health and the menopause.
Symprove’s latest research in the area of hormones was on ‘ The impact of a multi-strain probiotic in real-world women with perimenopause symptoms: a single-arm, virtual pilot study’. In this pilot study, daily supplementation with Symprove over 12 weeks was associated with improvements across menopause-specific quality of life, gastrointestinal symptoms, overall symptom burden, and sleep regularity in women experiencing perimenopause.
Hormonal changes can affect digestion too
Many women notice digestive changes around their menstrual cycle. Hormonal fluctuations can influence gut movement and sensitivity, which may contribute to changes in bowel habits or bloating. These changes can become particularly noticeable during perimenopause, when hormone levels can fluctuate significantly.
Supporting your gut
Your hormones cannot be controlled through one food or supplement. But you can support the environment in which your gut microbiome lives. Aim for a varied diet rich in plants and fibre, regular movement, enough sleep and good stress management. Your gut is one part of a much bigger hormonal picture. And understanding that relationship can help us take a more holistic approach to women's health.