In addition to digestion, gut function plays a role in hormone balance, metabolism, and reproductive health. Disruptions in the gut microbiome can contribute to symptoms such as PMS, cycle irregularities, and thyroid imbalance, which can influence fertility.
The Gut–Hormone Connection: Why It Matters
Your gut does far more than digest food. It’s home to trillions of bacteria that influence:
Estrogen and progesterone balance
Cortisol (stress hormone) levels
Insulin sensitivity
Inflammation throughout the body
A healthy gut helps hormones stay balanced. A disrupted gut can contribute to hormone-related
symptoms like:
Irregular periods
PMS or painful cramps
PCOS or endometriosis symptoms
Fatigue, bloating, and brain fog
Gut Health and Estrogen Balance
One of the most important links between gut health and fertility involves estrogen metabolism.
The gut microbiome contains a group of bacteria known as the estrobolome, which helps regulate
how estrogen is processed and eliminated from the body. When gut bacteria are out of balance:
Symptoms like heavy periods, mood swings, acne, or fibroids may worsen
Supporting gut health helps the body maintain healthy estrogen levels.
How Acupuncture Supports Gut Health and Hormone Balance
Acupuncture works through the nervous system to regulate digestion, hormones, and stress response. Benefits may include:
Improved gut motility and digestion
Reduced inflammation
Better regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis
Improved blood flow to reproductive organs
The Chiropractic Role in Hormonal and Digestive Health
Chiropractic care supports the gut–brain connection by improving nervous system communication. When the spine is restricted or misaligned, nerve signals to digestive organs can be disrupted.
Chiropractic care may help by:
Enhancing nervous system balance
Supporting healthy digestion and elimination
Reducing stress-related hormone disruption
Improving pelvic and spinal alignment for reproductive health
Simple Ways to Support Gut Health Naturally
Alongside acupuncture and chiropractic care, these habits can help improve gut and hormone balance:
• Focus on fiber-rich foods such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, avocado, and leafy greens to promote healthy digestion and support balanced estrogen levels.
• Include prebiotic foods like garlic, onions, leeks, and asparagus to feed the beneficial gut bacteria that help regulate hormone metabolism.
• Incorporate omega-3–rich options such as salmon, sardines, walnuts, and flaxseed oil. These healthy fats help protect the gut lining and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
• Prioritize quality sleep and stress management, as ongoing stress can disrupt the gut–brain connection, slow digestion, and interfere with healthy hormonal signaling.
Please contact the office with any questions. Feel free to reach out via email or by phone.
Take care!
info@clechiropractic.com
216-952-3830
Dr. Alex