Hormonal balance is an important factor that greatly affects our health and physical condition. Genes are deeply involved in the secretion and function of hormones, and genetic differences lead to individual differences in hormone secretion and metabolic ability. Recent research has begun to elucidate the effects of specific genes on hormone balance, and individually optimized health management based on this is becoming increasingly important. In this article, we will delve deeper into the relationship between hormone balance and genes, and explain how it can be used to manage your health, while also discussing the latest research results.
The relationship between hormone balance and genes
Hormonal balance is maintained by the mutual coordination of the hypothalamus in the brain, the pituitary gland, and the endocrine glands (thyroid, adrenal glands, ovaries, testes, etc.). However, this balance is influenced by genetic factors, and it is known that certain gene mutations affect hormone secretion levels and sensitivity.
1. Estrogen receptor genes (ESR1 and ESR2) and hormone sensitivity
Estrogen (female hormone) is an important hormone for women’s health, as it is involved in maintaining bone density and vascular health. The action of estrogen is exerted through the estrogen receptor (ER) . There are two types of ER genes , ESR1 (ERα) and ESR2 (ERβ) , each of which has a different function.
ESR1 gene (ERα) mutation → Estrogen sensitivity changes, and the risk of menopausal symptoms fluctuates
ESR2 gene (ERβ) mutation → Affects the risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis
Due to genetic mutations, some people’s constitutions are sensitive to the effects of estrogen, while others are not, so individual hormone balance adjustment is important.
2. Testosterone metabolism-related genes (AR, SRD5A2) and male hormones
Testosterone , a male hormone , is an important hormone involved in muscle growth and sexual function, but its function varies depending on genes.
AR gene (androgen receptor) → determines the effect of testosterone
SRD5A2 gene (5α-reductase) → converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
Mutations in the AR gene may reduce testosterone sensitivity, leading to changes in muscle development and male sexual function, while mutations in the SRD5A2 gene affect the amount of DHT produced, which can affect the risk of alopecia and prostate enlargement.
Genetic differences in hormone metabolism
After being secreted, hormones are metabolized and excreted by the liver and kidneys, and this metabolic process is also influenced by genes. In particular, mutations in genes that code for liver enzymes can affect the ability to break down hormones, which can result in differences in hormone concentrations in the blood.
1. CYP19A1 gene (aromatase) and estrogen metabolism
The CYP19A1 gene codes for an enzyme called aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen . Mutations in this gene can lead to increased estrogen production, which can cause hormonal imbalance.
People with high CYP19A1 activity → Excess estrogen, increased risk of breast cancer
People with low CYP19A1 activity → Lack of estrogen leads to decreased bone density and worsening menopausal symptoms
Knowing your genotype can help you make dietary and supplement choices to properly balance your estrogen levels.
2. COMT gene and estrogen degradation ability
An enzyme called COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) is involved in the breakdown of estrogen . This enzyme inactivates estrogen and excretes it from the body, but if there is a mutation in the COMT gene, there are individual differences in the breakdown ability.
People with low COMT gene activity → Estrogen remains in the body for longer, increasing the risk of breast cancer and endometriosis
Those with high COMT gene activity → Estrogen is broken down quickly, and menopausal symptoms appear earlier
In this way, knowing the type of COMT gene makes it possible to more precisely design hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and dietary treatment.
Depending on your genotype, you can improve your hormone balance by actively consuming the following nutrients:
Genotype
Nutrients needed
Recommended Foods
CYP19A1 mutations
Anti-estrogen foods
Broccoli, soybeans
COMT activity decrease
Promotes estrogen metabolism
Green tea, turmeric
Reduced AR sensitivity
Testosterone boosting foods
Red meat and zinc
2. Lifestyle and hormone regulation
People with CYP19A1 mutations: Avoid excessive alcohol intake to suppress estrogen production
People with low COMT activity: Incorporate moderate exercise to promote hormone metabolism
People with low AR sensitivity: Incorporate weight training to promote testosterone secretion
Digging deeper into the relationship between genes and hormone balance
Hormonal balance has a major impact on our health and mental state. Understanding how genes are involved in the production and breakdown of hormones can help you manage your health in a way that is optimal for you. Here we will delve into the relationship between genes and hormones in more detail, as well as practical approaches.
1. The relationship between thyroid hormones and genes
The role of thyroid hormones
Thyroid hormones regulate basal metabolism and are involved in body temperature, energy production, and neurological function. The secretion and action of these hormones are also influenced by genes.
Major genes involved
DIO1 gene (deiodinase) : A gene for an enzyme that converts T4 (thyroxine) to T3 (triiodothyronine). Mutations in this gene decrease the efficiency of conversion to T3, slowing down energy metabolism.
TSHR gene (thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor) : Regulates the secretion of thyroid hormone. Mutations in this gene may increase the risk of hypothyroidism and Graves’ disease.
Genotypic approach
Genotype
Characteristics of Thyroid Hormones
Dietary and lifestyle recommendations
DIO1 mutation present
T4→T3 conversion is slow
Seaweed rich in iodine, zinc and selenium supplements
TSHR mutation present
Unstable thyroid function
Go easy on gluten and manage stress
Understanding the genes associated with thyroid hormones can help you find ways to optimize your metabolism.
Cortisol (a stress hormone) is secreted by the adrenal glands and is involved in regulating stress response and immune function.
The relationship between adrenal hormones and genes
NR3C1 gene (glucocorticoid receptor) : Determines sensitivity to cortisol. Mutations may lead to an exaggerated or blunted response to stress.
HSD11B1 gene (hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) : Regulates the activity of cortisol. Mutations slow down the breakdown of stress hormones, making people more susceptible to chronic stress.
Approaches to increasing stress tolerance
Genotype
The effects of cortisol
Recommended stress management techniques
NR3C1 mutation present
Low stress tolerance
Meditation, magnesium supplementation, and avoiding caffeine
HSD11B1 mutation present
Cortisol breakdown is slowed
Moderate exercise and vitamin C intake
People with a genetic type that is vulnerable to stress can stabilize their hormone balance by being conscious of lifestyle habits that reduce stress.
3. Insulin sensitivity and genes
Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, and sensitivity to it varies greatly depending on genes.
Related genes
TCF7L2 gene : Regulates insulin secretion and influences the risk of type 2 diabetes. Mutations reduce insulin secretion and increase the risk of diabetes.
PPARG gene : Regulates fat cell metabolism and affects insulin sensitivity. Mutations in the gene slow down fat burning and can lead to weight gain.
How to Improve Insulin Sensitivity
Genotype
Characteristics of insulin
Diet and exercise recommendations
TCF7L2 mutation present
Low insulin secretion
Low GI foods, high fiber diet
PPARG mutation present
Poor insulin sensitivity
Aerobic exercise and omega-3 fatty acid intake
People with certain genotypes can stabilize their blood sugar levels by making appropriate adjustments to their diet and exercise.
4. Sleep hormone (melatonin) and genes
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the body’s internal clock and improves sleep quality, and its production and sensitivity are also influenced by genes.
Melatonin and related genes
MTNR1B gene (melatonin receptor) : Determines the function of melatonin, and mutations affect sleep quality.
CLOCK gene : Regulates the rhythm of the body’s internal clock. Mutations in the gene can cause circadian rhythm disorders.
How to Improve Your Sleep Quality
Genotype
Sleep characteristics
Recommendations
MTNR1B mutation present
Melatonin is less effective
Avoid blue light before bed and take magnesium
CLOCK gene mutation
Your body clock is easily disrupted
Use melatonin supplements to sleep and wake up at the same time
By implementing sleep improvement strategies based on your genotype, you may be able to get better quality rest.
5. Comprehensive hormone balance adjustment using genetic testing
By utilizing your genetic information, you can more effectively manage your hormone balance.
A genotyping-based integrated approach
Gene
influence
Recommended lifestyle
CYP19A1
Estrogen Excess
Limit soy products and consume antioxidant foods
NR3C1
Decreased stress tolerance
Try meditation and cut down on caffeine
CLOCK
Disruption of the body clock
Go to bed at a fixed time and take melatonin
By knowing your genetic characteristics and adopting a lifestyle that corresponds to them, you can manage your hormone balance more effectively.
How to adjust hormone balance using genetic information
Hormonal imbalance is a factor that increases the risk of poor health and chronic diseases. By utilizing genetic information, it is possible to optimize hormone function and adjust it to suit each individual’s constitution. Here, we will introduce a more specific approach to how to balance hormones according to genes.
1. The relationship between growth hormone (GH) and genes
The role of growth hormone
Growth hormone (GH) is an important hormone that promotes muscle growth, fat burning, and cell repair. GH secretion is influenced by genetic factors, and growth hormone production capacity differs depending on the genotype.
Growth hormone-related genes
GHR gene (growth hormone receptor) : Determines the action of GH. Mutations may weaken the effect of GH, resulting in reduced muscle development and metabolism.
IGF1 gene (insulin-like growth factor-1) : Assists the function of GH and promotes cell growth. Mutations affect the sensitivity to IGF-1, resulting in different growth hormone effects.
Hormone regulation according to genotype
Genotype
Characteristics of GH secretion
Recommended lifestyle
GHR mutation present
Insensitive to growth hormone
High protein diet, weight training
With IGF1 mutation
Reduced effectiveness of growth hormone
Arginine intake improves sleep quality
Point：
GH is secreted during deep sleep , so it’s important to avoid caffeine and blue light before bedtime.
Consuming foods containing arginine and ornithine (meat, fish, soybeans)** promotes the secretion of GH.
2. The relationship between female hormones (progesterone) and genes
The role of progesterone
Progesterone is a hormone involved in regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining pregnancy, and mental stability. Genetic factors cause individual differences in the amount of progesterone secreted and metabolized.
Progesterone-related genes
PGR gene (progesterone receptor) : Determines sensitivity to progesterone. Mutations can make a woman less susceptible to the effects of hormones, which can increase the risk of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) and infertility.
CYP3A4 gene (progesterone metabolism) : Regulates the breakdown of progesterone in the liver. Mutations determine whether progesterone remains in the body longer or is broken down faster.
Hormone regulation according to genotype
Genotype
プロゲステロンの特徴
推奨する対策
PGR mutation present
Insensitive to progesterone
Vitamin B6 intake and relaxation habits
CYP3A4 mutations
Progesterone breaks down quickly
Avoid high-fat foods and maintain hormone balance
Point：
Vitamin B6 (bananas, nuts, chicken) supports progesterone function
Meditation and yoga are effective because stress suppresses the secretion of progesterone.
3. The effects of adrenal hormone (DHEA) and genetic relationships
The role of DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland and is involved in stress resistance and energy metabolism. The amount of DHEA secreted varies depending on genetic factors and decreases with age.
DHEA-related genes
CYP17A1 gene: Regulates the synthesis of DHEA. Mutations in the gene can lead to decreased secretion of DHEA, which can lead to fatigue and a weakened immune system.
SULT2A1 gene: Regulates the metabolism of DHEA. Mutations affect whether DHEA remains in the body for a long time or is broken down quickly.
Hormone regulation according to genotype
Genotype
Characteristics of DHEA
Recommended lifestyle habits
CYP17A1 mutation present
Low secretion of DHEA
High protein diet and regular exercise
SULT2A1 mutation present
DHEA breaks down quickly
Stress management and omega-3 intake
Point：
Moderate exercise (aerobic + strength training) promotes the secretion of DHEA .
Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, walnuts) help maintain adrenal health and support the production of DHEA .
4. The relationship between oxytocin and genes
The role of oxytocin
Oxytocin is also known as the “love hormone” and is involved in forming social bonds and relieving stress . Genetic factors affect the amount of oxytocin secreted and the sensitivity of receptors.
Genes related to oxytocin
OXTR gene (oxytocin receptor) : Determines the degree to which we are affected by oxytocin. Mutations in this gene can make it harder to feel connected to people and can reduce stress tolerance.
Hormone regulation according to genotype
Genotype
Characteristics of oxytocin
Recommended Practices
OXTR mutation present
Low oxytocin sensitivity
Skin contact with loved ones, aromatherapy
Point：
Skin contact (hugging, massage) promotes the secretion of oxytocin .
Lavender and chamomile aromas can have a relaxing effect .
Optimization strategy for hormone balance using genetic information
Hormones play an important role in maintaining homeostasis in our bodies, but their secretion and function vary from person to person. By utilizing genetic information, it is possible to prevent hormone imbalance and build a healthier lifestyle. Here, we will explain in more detail how to adjust hormones according to your genetic type.
1. The relationship between insulin resistance and genes
The Importance of Insulin and Metabolism
Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and is an important factor in determining the risk of diabetes and obesity. Insulin action is strongly influenced by genes.
Genes involved in insulin sensitivity
TCF7L2 gene : Controls insulin secretion, and mutations in this gene increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
PPARG gene : Regulates fat cell function and increases insulin sensitivity. Mutations in this gene increase the risk of obesity.
Genotype-specific insulin management strategies
Genotype
Characteristics of insulin
Recommended diet and exercise
TCF7L2 mutation present
Decreased insulin secretion
Eat low GI foods and lots of dietary fiber
PPARG mutation present
Poor insulin sensitivity
Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and omega-3 intake
Point：
Prevent blood sugar spikes by choosing low GI foods (brown rice, vegetables, nuts).
Regular moderate exercise improves insulin sensitivity and prevents fat accumulation.
2. Genetic influences on serotonin and dopamine
The role of serotonin and dopamine
Serotonin is a hormone that induces a sense of happiness, and dopamine is a hormone that controls motivation and the reward system, and they are important factors in stabilizing mood. The secretion amount of these hormones and the sensitivity of the receptors vary depending on genetic factors.
Related genes
5-HTTLPR (serotonin transporter) : Regulates the amount of serotonin secreted, and mutations in this protein can lead to reduced stress resistance.
COMT gene : Regulates the rate of dopamine breakdown, and mutations can affect concentration and stress resistance.
Mental health management methods based on genotype
Genotype
Features
Recommended lifestyle habits
5-HTTLPR mutation present
Sensitive to stress
Meditation, relaxation, and tryptophan intake
COMT mutation present
Dopamine is broken down quickly
High-cocoa chocolate, exercise, low caffeine
Point：
To increase serotonin, eat foods that are high in tryptophan, such as bananas, nuts, and fish .
To maintain dopamine levels, it is important to get into the habit of moderate exercise and manage stress.
3. The relationship between thyroid hormones and genes
Thyroid hormone function
Thyroid hormones are involved in metabolism and energy production, and their function is determined by genetic factors.
Genes involved in thyroid function
DIO2 gene : This gene converts T4 (thyroxine) into T3 (triiodothyronine), and if there is a mutation in this gene, energy metabolism is likely to decrease.
TSHR gene : Determines sensitivity to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and mutations increase the risk of hypothyroidism.
Thyroid hormone regulation according to genotype
Genotype
Characteristics of Thyroid Hormones
Recommended diet and lifestyle
DIO2 mutation present
T3 conversion is decreased
Eat foods that contain iodine and selenium
TSHR mutation present
Risk of Hypothyroidism
Gluten restriction, stress management
Point：
Consume seaweed (kelp, wakame) to support thyroid hormone production.
Adopt relaxation habits, as stress can have a negative effect on thyroid function.
4. Genetic influences on melatonin and sleep
Melatonin and the body clock
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the body clock and improves the quality of sleep. Genetic differences affect the amount of melatonin secreted and sensitivity to it.
Related genes
MTNR1B gene : Encodes the melatonin receptor, and mutations in this gene can lead to disrupted sleep rhythms.
CLOCK gene : Regulates circadian rhythms, and mutations in the gene increase the risk of staying up late and getting insufficient sleep.
How to improve sleep by genotype
Genotype
Sleep characteristics
Recommended Practices
MTNR1B mutation present
Melatonin sensitivity is low
Avoid blue light at night and take melatonin
CLOCK mutation present
Your body clock is easily disrupted
Get some morning sunlight and set a fixed bedtime
Point：
Refrain from using smartphones or PCs at night to promote the secretion of melatonin .
When you wake up in the morning, get some sunlight and reset your body clock .
Summary of optimizing hormone balance using genes
By utilizing genetic information, diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management can be optimized to suit each individual’s constitution.
Adjust your carbohydrate intake according to your insulin sensitivity
Adopt a diet that promotes the secretion of serotonin and dopamine
Be aware of nutrients that support the function of thyroid hormone
Establish a lifestyle that regulates your body clock and promotes the secretion of melatonin
By utilizing genetic information, it is possible to more effectively adjust hormone balance and achieve a healthier lifestyle.
Summary
Hormone balance is one of the factors that is greatly influenced by genes. The function and sensitivity of each hormone, such as insulin, serotonin, thyroid hormone, and melatonin, vary from person to person, and by utilizing genetic information, more effective health management becomes possible. By combining appropriate diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management, hormone balance can be optimized and a healthy lifestyle can be maintained. In the future, the evolution of genetic technology will make it possible to realize even more individually optimized hormone management.
