The Gut-Eye Axis
By Dr. Rachna Murthy
Understanding the gut-hormone connection could open the door to new treatments for hormone-related eye health issues. This October, during Menopause Awareness Month and World Sight Day (October 10th), the focus is on the Gut-Eye Axis, and its potentially powerful link to our microbiome.
Your gut microbiome plays a key role in hormone metabolism, and it doesn’t just impact your digestive system—it can also influence your eye health. As we continue to learn more about this fascinating connection, we may discover new ways to manage hormone-related eye conditions and protect our vision.
Hormone-eye connection:
🧿 Reduced testosterone levels in the skin around the eyes causes reduced tear production and tear-film oil production
🧿 Menopausal dry eyes could be worsened with estrogen replacement
🧿 Testosterone is important for eye health
Key facts:
🧿 The gut microbiome can affect estrogen levels through the “estrobolome” - the collection of bacteria in the gut which can metabolize and harmonize the body's circulating estrogen.
♀️♂️ Sex differences:
Did you know that women produce about 70% of the testosterone that men do? However, the active levels circulating in our bloodstream are much lower compared to men. This hormonal difference plays a role in many aspects of our health, including skin, hair, and eye health. Understanding these nuances is key to tailoring beauty and wellness routines that meet our unique needs!
💡 The Gut-Hormone Connection:
🧿 Antibiotic use can decrease estrogen levels by altering gut bacteria.
🧿 Probiotics lmay help restore testosterone levels in aging mice.
Stay tuned as we explore how keeping your microbiome in balance could be the key to healthier eyes!
Dr. Rachna Murthy is an Oculoplastic Reconstructive Surgeon at Face Restoration in London and Medical Advisor for ÈSSIRI Labs, creators of Èyes Are The Story.
