Can probiotics contribute to better hormonal balance?

The intestinal flora communicates directly with the body's hormonal system and can influence the production and metabolism of several important hormones, such as:

  • Estrogen, which is important for women's fertility

  • Insulin, which affects blood sugar levels and may be linked to PCOS

  • Stress hormones such as cortisol, which affect hormone balance and menstrual cycles

Probiotics can reduce low-grade inflammation, which can disrupt hormone signals. By improving the absorption of vitamins and minerals necessary for hormone production, probiotics can contribute to a more stable hormonal balance. Research at Örebro University shows important interactions between the gut and the brain that can affect hormones: Brain-gut interactions after probiotic supplementation .