Dysbiosis is a clinical term describing an imbalance in the microbial community, particularly within the gut, characterized by a loss of beneficial bacterial diversity and an overgrowth of potentially pathogenic organisms. This disruption of the microbiome’s healthy equilibrium can lead to compromised gut barrier integrity and systemic, low-grade inflammation. Given the critical gut-hormone axis, dysbiosis can profoundly impact the metabolism and recycling of hormones, significantly affecting overall wellness and endocrine stability.
Origin
The term is derived from Greek roots: dys- meaning “bad” or “difficult,” and bios meaning “life.” Thus, it literally means “unhealthy life” in the context of the microbial ecosystem residing within the host. The concept gained significant clinical recognition with the advent of advanced sequencing technologies that allowed for detailed analysis of the gut microbiota composition and its functional outputs.
Mechanism
A shift in the ratio of microbial species leads to altered production of vital short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are essential for colonocyte health and immune signaling. Furthermore, certain dysbiotic bacteria can produce enzymes, such as beta-glucuronidase, which deconjugate and reactivate hormones like estrogen that the liver intended for excretion. This unwanted enterohepatic recirculation can lead to elevated circulating hormone levels, directly impacting endocrine balance and potentially contributing to conditions like estrogen dominance.
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