The Role of Gut Microbes in Alleviating Menopausal Symptoms
The key to alleviating common menopausal issues such as hot flashes and mood swings may be found in your gut health.
Emerging research suggests a significant link between the microbiome and hormones. Improving gut health can help women better manage the challenges of menopause, a natural phase in life.
The Connection Between Microbiome and Hormones
- Estrogen plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. When estrogen levels decrease during menopause, it can lead to dysbiosis, causing an imbalance in gut bacteria.
- Beneficial gut microbes are essential for a healthy intestinal barrier. Imbalance in gut bacteria can result in a “leaky gut,” leading to systemic inflammation.
- Leaky gut has been associated with hot flashes.
- By adjusting diet and adopting a healthy lifestyle to reduce stress, women can improve hormonal symptoms by rebalancing their gut.
The microbiome-hormone connection is crucial for all women to understand, according to JeJe Noval, a functional dietitian specializing in gut and hormone health for premenopausal and menopausal women.
“Gut dysbiosis commonly occurs during menopause due to hormonal changes, so it’s essential to address it,” Noval explained.
Factors Contributing to Dysbiosis
Various factors like antibiotics, birth control hormones, and antacids can disrupt gut health, along with bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Noval customizes recommendations based on her clients’ hormone levels and microbiome makeup.
…
