Have you experienced symptoms of estrogen dominance like weight gain, heavy periods, fibroids, migraines and headaches, breast tenderness and swelling, mood swings, adenomyosis or endometriosis?
This week’s blog post shares some ideas about why that may be happening!
AROMATIZATION: THE BIOLOGICAL ALCHEMY
The process of aromatization, or hormonal conversion, plays a vital role in our bodies. In this process, the enzyme known as aromatase facilitates the conversion of androgens, such as Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and Testosterone, to Estrone (E1) and Estradiol (E2), the two most biologically active estrogens. While traditionally classified as 'male' and 'female' hormones, it's essential to note that both men and women produce and utilize these hormones, albeit in different quantities. 1
Androgen and estrogen balance is crucial for maintaining overall hormonal health. However, when this balance is disturbed, due to enhanced aromatase activity triggered by factors such as age, stress, obesity, and genetics, it can lead to an increase in estrogen levels and a state of estrogen dominance. This imbalance is associated with symptoms of estrogen excess as well as more serious health issues, including mood swings, weight gain, fatigue, migraines and headaches, painful periods, endometriosis, and even certain types of cancer, making it a critical aspect of your hormonal health that can be easily overlooked using traditional medical approaches.2
GENETIC INFLUENCES: INHERITED AROMATASE ACTIVITY
Every individual carries a unique set of genetic code - the DNA sequences that contain instructions for all our bodily processes. These genes, inherited from our parents, have a significant influence on various aspects of our health, including hormonal activity. Of the diverse range of genes that we possess, some are directly involved in the regulation of the aromatase enzyme. The genetic variations or mutations, known as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which are differences in a single DNA building block, can influence how effectively the aromatase enzyme performs its function.
When SNPs are present in genes related to aromatase, they can change its activity, leading to alterations in estrogen levels in the body. For instance, if a genetic variation enhances the activity of aromatase, it might increase the conversion rate of androgens to estrogens. This would lead to an increase in the levels of estrogen, creating a state of estrogen dominance. Conversely, certain genetic variations could decrease aromatase activity, leading to a slower conversion of androgens to estrogens, causing lower estrogen levels. Estrogen deficiency could present with symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and bone loss, which are commonly seen in perimenopausal and menopausal women.3
THE DUTCH TEST: A COMPREHENSIVE SNAPSHOT OF HORMONAL HEALTH
Functional testing goes beyond the traditional diagnosis of diseases and instead focuses on understanding the underlying causes of health concerns. It seeks to understand the body as an interconnected system and explore how its different parts interact to impact health. The DUTCH test is one such functional test that provides comprehensive insights into hormonal imbalances. It assesses a variety of hormones, including the primary stress hormone (cortisol), sex hormones (progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, and DHEA), and their metabolites. The metabolites give additional insights into how these hormones are being processed and eliminated from the body. Imbalances in these hormones or issues with their metabolism could be contributing to a wide range of symptoms, from fatigue and mood swings to weight issues and sleep disturbances.4
For individuals considering Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), the DUTCH test is especially useful.5 HRT involves introducing hormones into the body to address hormone imbalances, such as low estrogen levels in menopausal women. However, without a comprehensive understanding of one's hormonal profile, including how the body is metabolizing these hormones and any potential genetic influences, HRT could lead to unexpected outcomes or side effects.
THE TAKEAWAY
In our body, hormones function together in an elaborate and delicate balance. Every facet, from hormone production and conversion to elimination, is meticulously interconnected, governing an array of physiological functions. Even minor alterations in this balance can lead to significant effects on our overall well-being, including our energy levels, mood, weight, and more.
Genetic factors play a significant role in this hormonal interplay. Our genes can influence how quickly or slowly we produce and metabolize hormones, impacting their overall balance in our body. Uncovering these genetic influences can provide essential insights into our unique hormonal balance and guide individualized treatment approaches.
In this context, advanced tools like the DUTCH test, combined with genetic testing, are revolutionizing how we understand and manage hormonal health. By providing a personalized snapshot of our hormonal profile and uncovering genetic influences on hormone metabolism, the DUTCH test combined with advanced genetic testing paves the way for truly personalized healthcare strategies. These insights can empower healthcare providers to design Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) protocols that are tailored to an individual's unique needs, maximizing effectiveness and minimizing potential side effects.
If you're contemplating HRT or grappling with symptoms that may point towards hormonal imbalances, remember the importance of personalized insights into your hormonal health. Functional testing like the DUTCH test, coupled with genetic testing and expert consultation, can guide you toward making informed, safe, and effective decisions about your health. Take control of your hormonal health today.
References
Simpson ER. Aromatization of androgens in women: current concepts and findings. Fertil Steril. 2002 Apr;77 Suppl 4:S6-10.
Simpson ER. Sources of estrogen and their importance. The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. 2003 Sep 1;86(3-5):225-30.
Di Nardo G, Di Venere A, Zhang C, Nicolai E, Castrignanò S, Di Paola L, Gilardi G, Mei G. Polymorphism on human aromatase affects protein dynamics and substrate binding: spectroscopic evidence. Biol Direct. 2021 Apr 26;16(1)8
Newman M, Pratt SM, Curran DA, Stanczyk FZ. Evaluating urinary estrogen and progesterone metabolites using dried filter paper samples and gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). BMC Chem. 2019 Feb 4;13(1):20.
Newman M, Curran DA. Reliability of a dried urine test for comprehensive assessment of urine hormones and metabolites. BMC Chem. 2021 Mar 15;15(1):18.