The human microbiome and the endocrine system are deeply interconnected, engaging in a complex two-way conversation that influences everything from mood to metabolism. One of the most fascinating areas of this interaction centers on estrogen and the gut—a relationship governed by what’s now known as the estrobolome.
First introduced in 2011, the estrobolome refers to the subset of gut microbes capable of metabolizing estrogens. These bacteria influence how estrogens are processed, recycled, or eliminated, and ultimately impact circulating estrogen levels in the body. When this microbial balance is disrupted—whether by diet, infection, or dysbiosis—it can have ripple effects across hormone-related systems.
What Does the Estrobolome Do?
The gut microbiota is home to enzymes that are integral to numerous metabolic processes—including estrogen metabolism. Through a finely tuned balance of estrogen excretion and reactivation, the estrobolome plays a vital role in hormonal homeostasis.
Interestingly, the relationship is mutual. Estrogens can support gut health by enhancing microbial diversity and upregulating the enzymes responsible for their own metabolism. In this way, healthy estrogen levels and a diverse gut ecosystem help to sustain each other.
However, when the microbiome becomes imbalanced, it may promote inflammatory conditions, disturb immune regulation, and even contribute to the development of hormone-driven cancers like breast, ovarian, or endometrial cancer.
The Liver-Gut-Hormone Axis
Estrogens are primarily made in the ovaries (in premenopausal women) and in fat tissue and adrenal glands (postmenopause). These hormones circulate throughout the body, and once they've done their job, they're broken down in the liver through a two-step detoxification process.
- Phase I: Estrogens are converted to more water-soluble forms by cytochrome P450 enzymes.
- Phase II: They are conjugated—typically via glucuronidation or sulfation—and routed for elimination through the urine or bile.
But here’s the twist: once in the intestines, some gut bacteria produce β-glucuronidase enzymes that can “deconjugate” these estrogens, freeing them to re-enter circulation—a process called enterohepatic recirculation. While this can be beneficial in moderation, too much reactivation can contribute to estrogen dominance.
β-Glucuronidase and Estrogen Recycling
These reactivating enzymes aren’t all bad—they help fine-tune estrogen levels. But elevated β-glucuronidase activity, especially in a disrupted microbiome, can promote excessive estrogen recycling, leading to:
- Fibrocystic breasts
- PMS or PMDD
- Mood imbalances
- Heavy or irregular periods
- PCOS and infertility
- Endometrial hyperplasia
- Hormone-sensitive cancers
- Weight gain and bloating
A diverse microbiome typically keeps β-glucuronidase activity in check. However, when estrogen levels drop (as in menopause), microbial diversity often declines, allowing these enzymes to rise—and increase estrogen recycling just when you need clearance most.
The Role of Bacterial Diversity
The gut’s main bacterial phyla—Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes—are key producers of β-glucuronidase. A diet high in saturated fats tends to skew this balance, favoring Firmicutes, which produce more of these enzymes. This imbalance is not only linked to obesity but also increased risk for estrogen-related disorders.
What About Testosterone and Progesterone?
Though less studied, testosterone and progesterone also undergo similar gut-liver recycling. β-glucuronidase can act on their conjugated forms, potentially increasing their systemic reabsorption. Progesterone metabolism is especially complex, producing neuroactive byproducts like allo-pregnanolone, which has calming effects on the brain.
Interestingly, when progesterone is deconjugated in the gut, its protective, anti-estrogenic properties are lost, potentially tipping the scales toward estrogen dominance.
Can We Measure the Estrobolome?
Yes. Advanced stool testing can reveal bacterial composition, levels of β-glucuronidase, markers of inflammation, and gut immunity. These insights, paired with hormone testing (via saliva, blood, or urine), can help identify whether estrogen dominance is stemming from impaired gut clearance.
Understanding Dysbiosis
Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance or dysfunction in the gut microbiota. It may involve:
- Loss of beneficial bacteria (e.g., after antibiotics)
- Overgrowth of potentially harmful microbes
- Reduced overall microbial diversity
This imbalance can lead to increased β-glucuronidase activity, inflammation, gut permeability, and even systemic conditions like insulin resistance, PCOS, and metabolic syndrome.
Supporting a Healthy Estrobolome
To keep your estrobolome balanced and your hormones flowing smoothly:
Eat a high-fiber, plant-rich diet
Limit processed foods, sugars, alcohol, and red meat
Get regular physical activity
Support liver detox pathways with cruciferous vegetables and hydration
Consider targeted probiotics and prebiotics
Address any infections or overgrowth with functional medicine approaches
Spend time in nature and nurture your connection to the environment
Final Thoughts
The estrobolome may be invisible, but its effects are not. A well-functioning gut microbiome is essential not just for digestion, but for hormonal balance, immune strength, and long-term health. As science continues to uncover the deep connections between gut microbes and hormone regulation, it’s clearer than ever: your gut health is your hormone health.