The gut is often referred to as the “second brain,” but its influence goes far beyond digestion. During perimenopause and menopause, changes in gut health can profoundly impact metabolism, hormone balance, and overall well-being. Addressing gut inflammation is key to healing the body, rebalancing hormones, and improving metabolic health.
The Gut-Hormone Connection
When the gut is inflamed, it creates a ripple effect that can disrupt other systems, including:
- Thyroid: Inflammation impairs the conversion of T4 to T3, the active thyroid hormone, leading to hypothyroidism symptoms.
- Adrenals: Chronic inflammation increases cortisol production, which can lead to adrenal fatigue.
- Ovaries: Gut health impacts estrogen metabolism and progesterone balance, exacerbating hormonal imbalances common during perimenopause and menopause.
Common Gut Issues in Perimenopause and Menopause
- Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
- SIBO occurs when bacteria overgrow in the small intestine, leading to bloating, gas, and malabsorption. Women without a gallbladder are at higher risk due to changes in bile flow.
- Dysbiosis
- An imbalance in gut bacteria can increase inflammation, impair nutrient absorption, and contribute to conditions like leaky gut.
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Gut inflammation is often linked to autoimmune conditions, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, that further disrupt hormonal and metabolic health.
Rebalancing the Gut Naturally
Improving gut health requires a holistic approach, combining dietary changes, exercise, stress management, and targeted therapies.
1. Dietary Changes
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Eliminate Gut Irritants: Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, alcohol, and gluten (particularly for autoimmune conditions).
- Support Digestive Function: Incorporate fermented foods (yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi) and high-fiber foods to support beneficial gut bacteria.
- Targeted Nutrition for SIBO: A low-FODMAP diet can reduce symptoms and help manage bacterial overgrowth.
2. Exercise
- Moderate, consistent exercise improves gut motility and microbiome diversity while reducing inflammation.
3. Stress Management
- Chronic stress impairs gut function by increasing cortisol and disrupting the gut lining. Practices like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can significantly improve gut health.
Herbal Supplements for Gut Health
Depending on the root cause of inflammation, certain herbal supplements can help rebalance the gut:
- Berberine: Supports antimicrobial activity and can be helpful for SIBO and dysbiosis.
- Slippery Elm or Marshmallow Root: Helps soothe and heal the gut lining.
- Digestive Enzymes: Improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Probiotics: Reintroduce beneficial bacteria to restore gut balance.
Note: Always work with a healthcare provider to ensure supplements are appropriate for your specific condition.
The Role of Functional Stool Testing
Tests like the GI-MAP provide valuable insights into gut health, including:
- Bacterial imbalances or overgrowth
- Fungal or parasitic infections
- Markers of inflammation and gut permeability
- Digestive enzyme insufficiencies
These tests guide targeted treatment protocols, ensuring therapies are personalized and effective.
The 5R Protocol for Gut Healing
At Antigravity Wellness, we frequently use the 5R protocol to address gut inflammation:
- Remove: Eliminate irritants such as food sensitivities, toxins, infections, or bacterial overgrowth. This includes dietary changes (e.g., removing gluten for autoimmune conditions) and antimicrobial therapies for issues like SIBO or dysbiosis.
- Replace: Restore essential digestive elements like stomach acid, bile, and digestive enzymes to support proper digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Repopulate: Reintroduce beneficial bacteria through probiotics and prebiotics to rebuild a healthy microbiome.
- Repair: Support the healing of the gut lining using nutrients like zinc, L-glutamine, and herbal supplements like slippery elm or marshmallow root.
- Rebalance: Address lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep, and exercise to maintain long-term gut health.
Length of Treatment and Compliance
Healing the gut is not a quick fix. Depending on the severity of the inflammation and underlying conditions, it may take 3–12 months to see significant improvement.
Key Points for Success:
- Consistency: Following dietary, supplement, and lifestyle recommendations is crucial for faster results.
- Follow-Up: Regular re-evaluation ensures that the protocol is working and adjustments are made as needed.
Compliance with the protocol is essential to achieve and maintain results, especially when addressing complex conditions like SIBO or autoimmune-related gut issues.
The Connection Between Gut Health and Metabolism
A healthy gut directly impacts metabolism by:
- Enhancing nutrient absorption for energy and hormone production.
- Reducing systemic inflammation, which can improve insulin sensitivity and lower cortisol.
- Supporting thyroid function, critical for metabolic rate.
Case Study: Gut Healing and Hormonal Balance
A 52-year-old client came to Antigravity Wellness experiencing severe bloating, fatigue, brain fog, and weight gain. She also reported irregular periods and mood swings typical of perimenopause. Testing revealed:
- SIBO
- Dysbiosis
- Low thyroid hormone levels
- Elevated cortisol
She was placed on a tailored protocol that included:
- A low-FODMAP diet and antimicrobial therapy for SIBO.
- Probiotics and L-glutamine to repair the gut lining.
- Stress management techniques to lower cortisol.
- Thyroid and adrenal support through targeted supplements.
Over the next six months, her gut symptoms resolved, her energy improved, and her weight normalized. Her thyroid and adrenal health also improved, demonstrating the interconnectedness of gut health with the rest of the body.
Further Reading and Resources
- Gut and Psychology Syndrome by Natasha Campbell-McBride
- The Microbiome Diet by Raphael Kellman
- Research Articles:
Gut Health Support at Antigravity Wellness
At Antigravity Wellness, we specialize in extensive functional stool testing and personalized gut-healing protocols. Our 5R approach has helped clients reduce inflammation, resolve symptoms, improve body composition, and restore mental well-being.
If you believe gut inflammation may be contributing to your symptoms, schedule a brief initial consult today. Our telemedicine practice serves women in Washington and Oregon, offering expert care to help you feel your best.
