The Connection Between Gut Health and Hormones During Menopause

Hormonal changes during menopause can disrupt digestion, but your gut plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance. Supporting gut health can help ease menopause symptoms, such as bloating, weight gain, and fatigue.

How Gut Health Affects Hormones

Your gut microbiome helps regulate estrogen levels by metabolizing and eliminating excess hormones through the estrobolome. An imbalanced gut microbiome can lead to an accumulation of estrogen, exacerbating menopause symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.

Common Gut Issues During Menopause:

  1. Bloating: Hormonal fluctuations slow digestion, leading to discomfort.

  2. Weight Gain: Reduced estrogen can alter gut bacteria, increasing fat storage.

  3. Constipation: Changes in gut motility can cause irregular bowel movements.

Tips for Gut and Hormone Health:

  1. Eat Fiber-Rich Foods: Fiber supports gut bacteria that regulate estrogen. Include flaxseeds, beans, and leafy greens in your diet.

  2. Take Probiotics: Supplements can help restore balance to your gut microbiome. Choose strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium bifidum.

  3. Stay Active: Regular exercise improves digestion and hormonal balance.

  4. Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins and supports gut motility.

A healthy gut is essential during menopause. With the right nutrition and support, you can ease symptoms and feel your best. Goodphyte’s hormone-supportive supplements can make this transition smoother.

References:

  1. Fuhrman, B. J., et al. (2014). Estrogen metabolism and breast cancer risk: a review. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, 23(7), 1135–1147.

  2. Vyas, D., et al. (2016). Gut microbiota and hormonal interactions at different stages of women’s health. Gut Microbes, 7(6), 460–470.