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Enterohepatic Circulation Disruption

Meaning

Enterohepatic circulation disruption refers to the pathological interruption of the normal recycling process where substances, particularly steroid hormones or their conjugated metabolites, are secreted by the liver into the bile, pass into the intestine, and are subsequently reabsorbed back into the systemic circulation. When this process is compromised, often due to gut dysbiosis, impaired liver function, or inadequate fiber intake, the body fails to efficiently clear or reuse these crucial hormonal compounds. Clinically, this disruption can lead to a buildup of toxic metabolites or a rapid loss of beneficial hormones, significantly impacting endocrine balance and overall metabolic health.