Detoxification: Oestrogen Metabolism: Flashcards
Q: What is the role of the CYP1A1 gene in oestrogen metabolism?
A: The CYP1A1 gene converts oestrogens into 2-hydroxy (2OH) oestrogens, which are neutral or beneficial for the body. DIM and I3C from cruciferous vegetables stimulate this gene.
Q: What does the CYP1B1 gene do in oestrogen metabolism, and what are the risks?
A: The CYP1B1 gene converts oestrogens to 4-hydroxy (4OH) oestrogens, which can form harmful quinones that damage DNA and potentially cause cancer. Variations in CYP1B1 increase 4OH production.
Q: What is the function of the COMT gene in oestrogen metabolism?
A: The COMT gene methylates 2OH and 4OH oestrogens before their detoxification.
Q: How are oestrogens detoxified in the body, and what increases cancer risk?
A: Oestrogens are detoxified by sulphation and glucuronidation. SNPs in the SULT and UGT genes can increase the risk of hormone-related cancers, like breast cancer.
Q: How does gut bacteria affect oestrogen recirculation, and what bacteria raise beta-glucuronidase levels?
A: Gut bacteria can deconjugate oestrogens in the bowel, leading to recirculation via beta-glucuronidase enzymes. Overgrowth of bacteria like E. coli and Clostridium perfringens can raise beta-glucuronidase levels.
Q: How can you combat raised beta-glucuronidase levels and support oestrogen elimination?
A: Optimise gut flora and increase foods rich in glucuronic acid (e.g., mung bean sprouts, orange peel tea, apples, broccoli).
Q: What dietary changes can optimise oestrogen metabolism?
A: Increase intake of cruciferous vegetables (especially broccoli sprouts), fibre, organic fruits/vegetables, and filtered water.
Q: What should be avoided to improve oestrogen metabolism?
A: Avoid dairy, excess alcohol and caffeine, non-organic meat/eggs, plastic bottled water (BPA), antiperspirants, and hormonal contraceptives.
Q: What protocol can help address dysbiosis related to oestrogen metabolism?
A: Use the “weed, seed, feed” protocol, and consider calcium D-glucarate to inhibit beta-glucuronidase.
