What is the Origin of Microbiome Imbalance?

The concept is rooted in the burgeoning field of microbiome research, which has revealed the symbiotic relationship between human hosts and their resident microorganisms. Imbalance reflects a deviation from the healthy, diverse eubiotic state. The connection to hormonal health stems from the discovery of the 'estrobolome,' the collection of gut bacteria that metabolizes estrogens.

What is the Mechanism of Microbiome Imbalance?

Dysbiosis impairs the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which are vital for colonocyte health and immune regulation. Furthermore, an imbalanced microbiome can lead to increased lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation, driving systemic inflammation and insulin resistance, which directly impacts the HPA axis and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels. Restoring microbial diversity and function is a critical mechanism for re-establishing hormonal homeostasis.

Microbiome Imbalance ∞ Area

Microbiome Imbalance

Meaning

A state of dysbiosis characterized by an alteration in the composition, diversity, or functional capacity of the commensal microbial communities residing within the human body, predominantly in the gut. This imbalance, often termed dysbiosis, is clinically significant because it compromises gut barrier function, affects nutrient absorption, and profoundly influences the metabolism and enterohepatic circulation of hormones. Microbiome Imbalance is a recognized contributor to systemic inflammation and various endocrine disorders.