How The Gut Microbiome Influences Estrogen After Menopause with David Meriwether, PhD | MGC Ep. 110

Menopause is often described as a simple decline in estrogen production, but emerging microbiome research suggests the story is far more complex. In this episode of The Mind–Gut Conversation, Dr. Mayer is joined by Dr. David Meriwether, a scientist at UCLA’s Goodman Luskin Microbiome Center, to discuss the estrobolome — a specialized group of gut microbes that recycle and reactivate estrogen after it has been excreted by the body. They explore how gut microbes may contribute to circulating estrogen levels even after menopause, why menopausal symptoms vary so widely among women, and how changes in the microbiome may create feedback loops that influence symptom severity. The discussion also places this research in the broader context of recent findings published in Nature linking the gut microbiome to health, aging, and disease. This episode offers an in-depth, evidence-based look at a new biological framework for understanding menopause, and the potential for future non-hormonal strategies rooted in the brain–gut–microbiome system. Topics discussed include: • What the estrobolome is and why it matters • How gut microbes recycle estrogen after menopause • Why some women experience fewer menopausal symptoms than others • The interaction between the gut, hormones, and aging • Where microbiome-based therapies for menopause may be headed This is a practical, science-driven discussion for anyone interested in women’s health, menopause, and the evolving role of the gut microbiome. You can learn more about Dr. Meriwether's work here: https://themeriwetherlab.com/ You can support Dr. Meriwether's work directly here: https://giving.ucla.edu/Campaign/Dona... ------------------------------- Connect with Dr. Mayer: Website: https://www.emeranmayer.com Instagram:   / emeranmayer   X (Twitter):   / emeranmayermd   Facebook:   / emeranmayermd   LinkedIn:   / emeranmayer   ------------------------------- Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 3:29 - Why Are Current Approaches to Menopause Falling Short? 7:10 - What is the Estrobolome? 11:48 - How Do Gut Microbes Influence Hormone Levels? 18:56 - Why Do Some Women Experiences Fewer Symptoms Than Others? 23:08 - Estrogen Recycling 26:10 - Estrogen & Post-Menopause 32:08 - Where This Research is Headed 39:39 - Closing Remarks + David's Lab at UCLA