Women experience a hormonal imbalance called “estrogen dominance”, according to Stevens. She writes that cases of breast cancer in young women under 40 are increasing. PCOS, the most common reproductive endocrine disorder in the U.S., is also on the rise. However, women can “promote, restore and enhance hormone balance” through diet and lifestyle practices focusing on gut health.

   

In the book, Stevens addresses issues such as fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian and other cysts, PCOS, infertility, problematic menstruation and cancers of estrogen-sensitive tissues (breast, uterus or ovary), and ties them to the gut—with special focus on the liver, gall bladder, lymphatics and microbiome.

   

Estrogen stimulates cell growth. Progesterone regulates cell growth. “When impaired, our gut microbiome tends to recycle hormones, xenoestrogens (industrially produced) and toxicants rather than excrete them out of our body through our bowel. The higher levels of estrogen increase the risk for cellular growth, presupposing us to cancers,” explains Stevens.

   

Estrogen is naturally produced in the ovaries, adrenal glands and fat cells. After menopause, the “adrenal glands take on the responsibility for estrogen production, along with our fat cells and gut microbiome”. Living a fast-paced, high-stress lifestyle alters the stress hormone cortisol, which negatively affects digestive and eliminative functions.

   

The book outlines a removal and replacement process to restore hormonal balance through intestinal health. Goal one is to reduce daily exposure to toxins including processed food. Goal two is to incorporate daily detoxification practices. The combination of reducing exposure and enhancing detoxification is the primary way to restore hormones and bring gut and overall health into balance.

   

Stevens delineates three detox procedures—castor oil packs, coffee enemas and colonics—and explains how to use them. The castor oil packs activate the parasympathetic nervous system enhancing peristaltic motility. Coffee enemas cause dilation of bile ducts, and facilitate excretion of toxic byproducts in the bowel. Colon hydrotherapy promotes the dilation of bile ducts, enhances bile flow, stimulates intestinal peristalsis, facilitates elimination and helps relieve constipation. The purpose of a colonic is to infuse water through a series of fills and releases throughout the entire colon.

   

Research now clearly shows that both our dietary choices and lifestyle behaviors can significantly modulate estrogen metabolism. Stevens stresses the importance of having a good bowel movement daily in order to maintain hormone balance. Food as medicine and intermittent fasting or time-restricted feeding are also part of her program.

   

What in the Gut is Going On? is available for purchase on Amazon.com.