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New ScientistonBluesky2d ago
Some gut bacteria recycle discarded sex hormones, like oestrogens, back into the body. The level of these bacteria seems to be higher in industrialised societies, which could have big implications for our health
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Claim Accuracy82%
Source Quality85%
Framing & Tone80%
Context80%
Analysis Summary
Gut bacteria in industrialized societies are up to 7 times better at recycling oestrogen back into the bloodstream compared to bacteria in hunter-gatherer and rural farming populations, according to a study of 24 global populations. If higher oestrogen recycling translates to higher blood hormone levels, this could affect fertility, cancer risk, and other health outcomes—though researchers note the effects could be beneficial for some people with naturally low oestrogen. The study used genetic sequencing to measure beta-glucuronidase enzymes but hasn't yet confirmed whether the genetic capacity to recycle hormones actually results in higher circulating oestrogen levels in industrialized populations.
Claims Analysis (5)
“Some gut bacteria recycle discarded sex hormones, like oestrogens, back into the body”
Well-established mechanism described in peer-reviewed research. Article explains the beta-glucuronidase enzyme process in detail.
“The level of these bacteria seems to be higher in industrialised societies”
Study found oestrogen-recycling capacity up to 7x greater in industrialized vs hunter-gatherer/rural populations. 'Seems' appropriately hedges ongoing research.
“This could have big implications for our health”
Stated as conditional possibility by researchers. Article notes higher oestrogen could increase cancer risk in some but be beneficial for others with low levels.
“Industrialised populations have up to 7x greater oestrogen-recycling capacity than hunter-gatherers and rural farmers”
Directly from Brittain's team study comparing 24 global populations. Measured via beta-glucuronidase gene sequences.
“Formula-fed babies have up to 3x the recycling capacity and 11x the diversity compared to breastfed babies”
Specific finding from the study as reported in the article. Notable microbiome difference between feeding methods.
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