How Understanding the Estrobolome Improved My Life and Hormones

I had never heard of the estrobolome before last year. Basically, it’s a population of bacteria in your stomach that helps regulate the amount of estrogen in your body. If these bacteria are out of balance, your hormones may also become imbalanced. For years, I had really awful PMS (I was grumpy, fatigued, and occasionally furious for no reason), heavy, painful periods, headaches before my menstruation and constant bloating, and “puffy” sensation. I went to the doctor, but they either stated it was “normal” or gave me painkillers. I felt like no one was paying attention.

After taking medicines for a sinus infection, my symptoms worsened. I started researching online and learnt about the estrobolome and how gut flora might influence hormones. It felt like a lighting went out in my brain! I realised that my gut, rather than my hormones, may be the source of the problem.

I chose to try to help my stomach and see if it would also benefit my hormones. First, I began eating more fibre by include plenty of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains in my meals. Before I was not the greatest eater, so this was really hard for me. Fruit and vegetables were not my friends… I also started eating more sauerkraut, which I already enjoyed (one of the only “vegetables” that I would eat), to acquire more healthy bacteria. I tried to cut back on junk food and drink. This was not always easy, but I found that sticking to it made me feel better. To relieve tension, I started going for walks in the park and doing short yoga sessions at home. I also started taking a probiotic that I got from the drugstore that was advertised as being “beneficial for women”. I think any other probiotic would also be fine.

I began to see some noticeable benefits after implementing these modifications for two or three months. I was no longer as cranky or exhausted, and my PMS was less severe. I experienced less headaches than previously, and my periods became lighter and less painful. I even shed a little weight without really trying, and my belly was less bloated. To be honest, I was surprised to learn how much altering my gut might improve my hormones.

I regret not learning about the estrobolome years ago. Although I’m not a doctor, I believe lots of women would feel better if they were aware of this. Try increasing your intake of fermented foods and fibre to see if it helps if you have similar issues. Additionally, don’t be scared to question your doctor about the health of your gut!

If anyone has questions or wants to share their own story, I’d love to hear it. We’re all here to help each other.