Hormonal balance has a significant impact on our health and daily life. In recent years, genetic testing has been used to clarify the characteristics of individual hormone balance, making it possible to select more effective health management and treatment options. In this article, we will take a closer look at how to understand differences in hormone balance through genetic testing and how to use this information.
Hormones are chemicals that regulate many different functions in the body, including growth, metabolism, mood and reproductive function. Hormonal imbalances can lead to many health problems, including menstrual irregularities, menopause, obesity, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
The relationship between genes and hormone balance
Individual genetic makeup affects the production, secretion, and metabolism of hormones. For example, a protein called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) binds to androgens and estrogens and regulates their action. The blood concentration of SHBG varies depending on genetic factors, and it is said that high levels of SHBG are associated with the risk of liver cirrhosis and breast cancer, while low levels are associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes and nephrotic syndrome.
Genetic testing can provide information about the following:
Risk assessment for hormone-related diseases : It is possible to identify genetic predispositions and take preventative measures.
Realization of personalized medicine : It will be possible to predict the effectiveness and likelihood of side effects of hormone therapy and drug therapy, and select the most appropriate treatment.
Reviewing lifestyle habits : Effective lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, can be expected to be made according to genetic characteristics.
Introduction of specific genetic testing services
The following genetic testing services are offered in Japan:
GeneQuest : Analyzes genetic predispositions for over 350 health risks and constitutions, including sex hormone regulation. genequest.jp
Hormone Age Checkup (Premedica Co., Ltd.) : A service that measures hormone balance in comparison with age and helps prevent poor health and aging. premedica.co.jp
Soy Check (Healthcare Systems, Inc.) : A urine test can be used to check the amount of “equol” produced in the body, which has estrogen-like effects. hc-sys.com
Limitations and Cautions of Genetic Testing
Genetic testing can provide useful information, but it is important to keep the following in mind:
Influence of environmental factors : Genes only partially determine predisposition and risk; environmental factors such as diet, exercise and stress also have a significant impact.
Interpretation of test results : Expert advice is important to correctly understand and use the results appropriately.
Protecting privacy : Genetic information is highly personal and must be handled with great care.
6. The relationship between genes and hormone balance: Major genes and their effects
By identifying differences in hormone balance through genetic testing, it becomes possible to manage health and adjust hormone levels according to individual constitutions . Here, we will explain in detail the main genes that affect hormone metabolism and secretion.
(1) CYP19A1 gene (involved in estrogen synthesis)
The role of genes
The CYP19A1 gene encodes the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for the synthesis of estrogen . It is known that mutations in this gene result in individual differences in the amount of estrogen secreted.
Polymorphisms and effects of the CYP19A1 gene
Having certain mutations leads to lower estrogen levels → decreased bone density after menopause and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Mutations that cause excessive secretion of estrogen → increased risk of breast cancer.
Health Recommendations
If estrogen is low: Take soy isoflavones, vitamin D, and exercise moderately .
In case of excess estrogen: Consciously consume anti-inflammatory foods (omega-3 fatty acids, green tea polyphenols) .
Research evidence
An association has been reported between mutations in the CYP19A1 gene and breast cancer risk (reference: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov ).
(2) SHBG gene (regulator of sex hormone-binding globulin)
The role of genes
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) is a protein that transports testosterone and estrogen in the blood and regulates their activity. Mutations in the SHBG gene affect hormone availability, leading to hormone imbalance in both men and women .
Polymorphisms in the SHBG gene and their effects
High SHBG levels reduce available testosterone and estrogen → increased risk of muscle weakness, decreased libido, and menstrual irregularities.
Low SHBG levels lead to excessive use of testosterone, increasing the risk of prostate disease in men and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women.
Health Recommendations
If SHBG is high : Increase your zinc, vitamin D and protein intake.
If SHBG is low : Improve insulin sensitivity with moderate exercise and increased fiber intake.
Research evidence
A link between SHBG and type 2 diabetes has been pointed out, and risk assessment based on genetic mutations is progressing (Reference: diabetesjournals.org ).
The COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) gene encodes an important enzyme involved in the breakdown of the stress hormones norepinephrine and dopamine . Polymorphisms in this gene affect stress tolerance, concentration, and mood stability.
COMT gene polymorphisms and their effects
Met/Met type (low activity type): Dopamine remains for a long time, so concentration is high but they are vulnerable to stress .
Val/Val type (high activity type): Dopamine is broken down quickly, and although it is resistant to stress, it is prone to loss of concentration and memory .
Health Recommendations
Met/Met type : Take magnesium and L-theanine and focus on relaxation.
Val/Val blood type: Supplement with DHA and B vitamins to maintain focus.
Research evidence
A relationship between the COMT gene and stress resistance has been reported (source: psychologytoday.com ).
The NR3C1 gene encodes a receptor for the stress hormone cortisol and is involved in stress response and immune regulation . Mutations in this gene alter sensitivity to cortisol, affecting chronic stress and fatigue.
Polymorphisms and effects of the NR3C1 gene
High cortisol sensitivity: Less resistant to stress, and increased risk of chronic fatigue and insomnia.
Low cortisol sensitivity: High stress tolerance, but increased risk of inflammation and autoimmune diseases.
Health Recommendations
If highly sensitive : moderate exercise, use adaptogenic herbs (rhodiola, ashwagandha).
If you are low sensitive : Consciously consume antioxidant foods (vitamin C, polyphenols).
Research evidence
There have been reports of a link between the NR3C1 gene and stress-related disorders (depression, PTSD) (Reference: sciencedirect.com ).
7. How to improve hormone balance using genetic testing
After undergoing genetic testing, how you use the information you obtain is important.
(1) Consultation with experts
In order to correctly understand the results of your genetic test and determine appropriate measures, it is important to consult with an endocrinologist or nutritionist .
(2) Lifestyle Adjustments
Use of nutritional supplements : Supplement with vitamins and minerals according to genetic characteristics.
Stress management : Incorporate relaxation and moderate exercise to balance hormones.
Optimize your sleep : Maintain consistent sleep habits to regulate your cortisol levels.
8. Hormone balance optimization strategy using genetic information
After understanding individual differences in hormone balance through genetic testing, it is important to know how to utilize that information. Here, we will explain in detail what lifestyle habits and nutritional supplements can be adopted to optimize hormone balance for people who are genetically prone to hormone imbalance.
(1) Adjusting estrogen balance
Genetic Risk
Mutations in the CYP19A1 and COMT genes predispose women to excess or deficiency of estrogen. Too much estrogen increases the risk of breast cancer, while too little estrogen can lead to reduced bone density and worsening menopausal symptoms.
Optimal diet and nutrition
High levels of estrogen (overexpression of the CYP19A1 gene）
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage (promotes estrogen metabolism)
Green tea and rosemary (suppresses excessive estrogen activity)
Anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA)
Low estrogen (low expression of the CYP19A1 gene）
Soy isoflavones (acts as phytoestrogens)
Vitamin D and calcium (to prevent bone mineral loss)
Pomegranate extract (an ingredient with estrogen-like properties)
Lifestyle Ideas
Avoid processed foods to prevent excess estrogen (additives can disrupt hormone balance)
Engage in moderate exercise to metabolize estrogen stored in fat cells
Research evidence
People with CYP19A1 polymorphisms can reduce their risk of estrogen-related diseases by adjusting their diet and supplements (reference: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov ).
Polymorphisms in the SHBG gene and AR (androgen receptor) gene affect the amount and activity of testosterone, which affects muscle mass and energy in men and libido and mental state in women.
Optimal diet and nutrition
Low testosterone (high SHBG)
Zinc (promotes testosterone synthesis): oysters, red meat
Vitamin D (maintains testosterone levels): sun exposure, supplements
Maca (adaptogen for hormonal balance)
Too much testosterone (low SHBG)
Green tea/mint tea (suppresses androgen activity)
Nuts and flaxseed oil (good fats that help balance hormones)
Lifestyle Ideas
Increase testosterone with high-intensity interval training (HIIT)
Reduces stress and suppresses the secretion of cortisol from the adrenal glands (high stress leads to a decrease in testosterone)
Research evidence
Men with low SHBG levels can improve their testosterone levels with zinc and vitamin D supplementation (source: endocrine.org ).
Mutations in the NR3C1 gene affect the amount and sensitivity of cortisol. Too much cortisol can lead to chronic stress, inflammation, and sleep disorders, while too little cortisol can increase the risk of immunosuppression and low blood pressure.
Optimal diet and nutrition
When cortisol is too high (too much stress)
Ashwagandha and Rhodiola (for adrenal support)
Magnesium (for nerve stability and stress relief)
Vitamin C (regulates cortisol production in the adrenal glands)
Cortisol is too low (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome）
High protein foods (eggs, chicken) (activates the adrenal glands)
Coenzyme Q10 (helps with energy production)
Light exercise in the morning stimulates hormone secretion
Lifestyle Ideas
Yoga and meditation to control the secretion of stress hormones
Morning sunlight normalizes cortisol rhythm
Research evidence
In people with the NR3C1 gene mutation, taking ashwagandha normalizes cortisol levels (source: sciencedirect.com ).
9. The future of hormone balance management using genetic information
As genetic testing technology evolves, hormone balance optimization is becoming more individualized and precise. We will explain what technologies will be useful in managing our health in the future and provide specific future prospects.
(1) Real-time hormone monitoring using AI
Latest Technology Trends
A hormone balance monitoring system using AI has been developed, making it possible to track hormone fluctuations in real time .
How AI hormone monitoring works
Wearable devices measure hormone levels (smartwatches and biosensors)
AI analyzes data and suggests optimal nutritional supplements and actions
Real-time feedback through the app
Expected effects
Prediction of ovulation cycles and menopausal symptoms (useful for women’s hormone management)
Understanding fluctuations in stress hormones and proposing countermeasures
Regulates the secretion rhythm of growth hormone and supports anti-aging
Research evidence
It has been suggested that AI-based hormone monitoring systems may help relieve menopausal symptoms and improve stress management (source: nature.com ).
(2) Hormone optimization using gene editing technology
What is gene editing?
Research is being conducted to fundamentally improve hormone balance by utilizing CRISPR-Cas9 technology to adjust hormone secretion and receptor function .
Examples of gene editing for hormone regulation
Regulating the CYP19A1 gene and adjusting the amount of estrogen synthesis
Controls SHBG gene expression and maintains testosterone balance
Correcting the NR3C1 gene mutation and improving stress resistance
Ethical issues
Regulation of hormone levels through gene editing requires discussion of safety and ethics
Consider the risk of side effects from excessive hormone correction
Research evidence
It has been reported that CRISPR technology may be useful for regulating hormone balance, and future medical applications are anticipated (Reference: sciencedirect.com ).
(3) Personalized supplements and hormone optimization
The evolution of personalized nutrition management
Development is underway to develop “personalized supplements” that automatically formulate nutritional supplements that are optimal for each individual’s hormone balance based on genetic information.
How the latest personalized supplements work
Combining genetic testing with hormone testing
AI combines optimal nutrients to provide individually customized supplements
Regular data analysis to adjust supplement content
Expected benefits
You can replenish only the necessary nutrients without taking in unnecessary nutrients
Optimize hormone balance and support health maintenance
Formulated with ingredients that take into consideration the metabolic efficiency of estrogen and testosterone
Research evidence
Research into customized supplements that utilize genetic information is progressing and is attracting attention as part of personalized medicine (source: genomeweb.com ).
(4) Future hormone balance management: Application of nanotechnology
Nanoparticle-based hormone replacement therapy
Research is being conducted into technologies that utilize nanotechnology to automatically adjust hormone balance in the body .
How Nanoparticle Hormone Replacement Therapy Works
Hormones are encapsulated in nanocapsules and released according to hormone levels in the body.
In the event of an excess of hormones, suppress release and maintain balance
Expected application areas
Treatment of menopausal symptoms (suppressing the side effects of hormone replacement therapy)
Care for adrenal fatigue syndrome (auto-regulation of cortisol secretion)
Maintaining muscle strength and preventing aging (controlling growth hormone secretion)
Research evidence
It has been reported that hormone replacement therapy using nanoparticles may contribute to maintaining a more stable hormone balance (source: biomaterialsjournal.com ).
10. Personal care of hormone balance using genetic information
Genetic testing can help you understand your individual hormone balance characteristics and choose lifestyle and care options accordingly. Here are some specific, personalized care strategies to help you achieve hormone balance .
(1) Optimizing lifestyle habits that affect hormone balance
1. Improve your sleep quality
Avoid blue light before bed to optimize melatonin secretion .
For people with a mutation in the NR3C1 gene, regular sleep habits are recommended because a nocturnal lifestyle disrupts hormonal balance.
2. Exercise and hormone balance
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is effective in increasing testosterone levels .
To balance estrogen levels, low-intensity exercise such as yoga and stretching are appropriate .
3. Stress Management and Adrenal Function Support
Prevent adrenal fatigue by practicing meditation and deep breathing.
People with low stress tolerance (COMT gene mutations) should supplement with L-theanine and magnesium .
Genetic testing can help understand the differences in individual hormone balance and enable optimal health management. Since the secretion and metabolism of estrogen, testosterone, stress hormones, etc. vary depending on genetic factors, it is important to choose the appropriate diet, exercise, and supplements. In the future, advances in AI and gene editing technology will enable even more precise hormone adjustments, and this is expected to lead to the development of personalized medicine.
