Estrogen metabolisM

Estrogen metabolism is the process by which estrogen is broken down and eliminated from our bodies in both males & females. There are more protective and less protective metabolites of estrogen available from the breakdown of the various forms of estrogen. Ideally, more harmful forms of estrogen would be detoxified in the liver. These forms may pose a risk for cancer and inflammatory disease. Depending on what factors are affecting our lives, estrogen metabolism may also be impacted and the way we view estrogen metabolism might change. These factors may include: menopause, PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome), hormonal birth control, prior history of a female reproductive cancer, stress, weight gain, fatigue and more. Also note that estrogen and all our other hormones impact one another! (See previous post). There are ways to assess hormone metabolization in the body.

There are 3 main forms of estrogen:

1. E1 – Estrone – may increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer

2. E2 – Estradiol – provides antioxidant support

3. E3 – Estriol – proliferative in nature

3 potential pathways/metabolites of E1 (Estrone) metabolism:

1. 2-hydroxyestrone

2. 16-hydroxyestrone

3. 4-hydroxyestrone

2-hydroxyestrone

This is the more favorable and a more protective estrogen metabolite. If there are any forms of estrogen that are pro-inflammatory and pose a risk for cancer, this is the metabolite that helps to prevent their action. This E1 metabolite is considered "protective." Ultimately, we would like this metabolite of estrogen to undergo a second pathway of methylation to form 2-methoxyestrone, because this methylated form is what offers protective effects against breast cancer.

16-hydroxyestrone

Research suggests that this metabolite of estrogen is associated with a higher risk of breast cancer. This particular estrogen metabolite is considered "pro-inflammatory", and is therefore, associated with and condition or disease related to inflammation including hypothyroidism, insulin dysregulation, etc.

4-hydroxyestrone

This is the estrogen metabolite that is capable of direct damage to DNA = higher oxidative stress. It can bind to DNA forming what we call quinone adducts. Research is showing the association between this metabolite and cancer and other inflammatory conditions.

Briefly, here are factors that may negatively impact estrogen metabolism:

• Obesity (can also be a result of impaired estrogen metabolism!)

• Alcohol consumption

• Tobacco

• Xenoestrogens - synthetic or chemical compounds that mimic estrogenic activity in the body

• Other toxins - mold exposure, heavy metals, fragrances, etc.

• Other immune-related conditions that may increase inflammation

Testing the metabolites may provide additional information that testing blood markers of estrogen alone might not be able to do on its own.

Hormone imbalance in general may influence:

• Energy

• Mood (irritability, anxiety, depression)

• Concentration

• Memory

• Metabolism/weight

• Skin

• Digestion

• and more.

Dr. Nadia Mawji, ND offers optional comprehensive hormone assessments when indicated. To learn more about how naturopathic medicine may support hormone health, please book in for a Meet & Greet appointment.

Dr. Nadia Mawji, ND

Calgary Naturopathic Doctor

**Any information provided in these posts are intended for information purposes only and not to be considered naturopathic medical advice. See your naturopathic doctor for individualized support & guidance