Proprietary Enterolactone Precursors Blend
Also known as: Enterolactone, ENL
Overview
Enterolactone is a lignan produced by the fermentation of dietary lignan precursors in the human gut. These precursors are found in plant foods such as seeds (e.g., flaxseed), whole grains, legumes, and various fruits and vegetables. It is often studied for its potential health benefits, including its role in cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, and hormonal regulation. Enterolactone has been shown to have estrogenic and anti-estrogenic properties, influencing various biological pathways, including cell proliferation and signaling pathways. Research on enterolactone is moderately mature, with numerous observational studies, some clinical trials, and meta-analyses. The evidence varies in quality, but there are several well-conducted observational studies and meta-analyses that provide insights into its effects.
Benefits
Enterolactone is associated with several potential health benefits. A meta-analysis suggests that higher serum enterolactone concentrations in postmenopausal women may be associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer, with a pooled relative risk of 0.704 (95% CI: 0.569-0.873). It is hypothesized to contribute to cardiovascular health through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Enterolactone exhibits estrogenic activity, activating the Erk1/2 and PI3K/Akt pathways, similar to estrogen, but with differential signaling. Plasma enterolactone concentration can serve as a biological marker of plant food consumption, with strong associations observed between enterolactone levels and intake of certain plant foods and fiber. The effect size for breast cancer risk reduction was significant, with a relative risk of 0.704 (95% CI: 0.569-0.873). Plasma enterolactone concentrations can increase within 8-9 hours after ingestion of lignan precursors and may be sustained over several days.
How it works
Enterolactone influences cell signaling pathways, particularly the Erk1/2 and PI3K/Akt pathways, which are involved in cell proliferation, survival, and metabolism. It has estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects, interacting with estrogen receptors and influencing hormonal balance. Enterolactone targets various molecular pathways, including those involved in cell cycle progression and chemokine secretion. Enterolactone is produced in the gut from dietary lignan precursors and then absorbed into the bloodstream. Its bioavailability can vary based on gut microbiota and dietary factors.
Side effects
Enterolactone is generally considered safe when derived from dietary sources. However, high doses or supplementation may have unforeseen effects. There is limited data on common side effects specifically for enterolactone supplementation, but it is typically well-tolerated when consumed as part of a normal diet. Potential interactions with hormonal therapies due to its estrogenic properties exist, but this is speculative and requires further research. Caution is advised for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using any lignan supplements due to the lack of comprehensive safety data. While uncommon and rare side effects are not well-documented, it is always prudent to monitor for any adverse reactions when introducing a new supplement.
Dosage
There is no well-defined minimum effective dose for enterolactone supplementation. Dietary intake of lignan precursors can lead to significant plasma enterolactone levels; for example, a single dose of 0.9 mg/kg body weight of lignan precursors can increase plasma enterolactone. There is no established optimal dosage range for supplementation; dietary recommendations focus on increasing consumption of plant foods rich in lignan precursors. The maximum safe dose is not established, but high doses are generally not recommended without medical supervision. Plasma enterolactone levels can increase within 8-9 hours after ingestion of lignan precursors and may be sustained over several days. Gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the conversion of lignan precursors to enterolactone; a healthy gut microbiome is essential for optimal absorption. A balanced diet rich in fiber and other plant nutrients can enhance the production and absorption of enterolactone.
FAQs
Is enterolactone supplementation safe?
Generally safe when derived from dietary sources, but supplementation should be approached with caution, especially for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions.
When should I take lignan precursors to increase enterolactone levels?
No specific timing recommendations exist, but consistent dietary intake of lignan precursors can maintain plasma enterolactone levels.
What are the expected benefits of increasing enterolactone levels?
Potential benefits include reduced risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women and general cardiovascular health, though more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Is enterolactone a direct supplement?
No, it is not a direct supplement but rather a metabolite produced from dietary lignan precursors by gut bacteria.
Research Sources
- https://aacrjournals.org/cebp/article/11/1/121/164378/Dietary-Determinants-of-Plasma-Enterolactone1 – This cross-sectional study with 115 women and 78 men found that plasma enterolactone concentrations were positively correlated with vegetable servings, fiber intake, and certain plant food categories. Caffeine and moderate alcohol consumption also increased enterolactone levels, suggesting dietary factors significantly influence enterolactone production.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0171390 – An in vitro study using MCF-7 cells demonstrated that enterolactone activates the Erk1/2 and PI3K/Akt pathways, similar to estrogen, but with differential effects on cell functions. This suggests that enterolactone has estrogenic properties but may influence cell functions differently than estrogen itself.
- https://www.jcancer.org/v12p2787.htm – A meta-analysis of 6 studies indicated that higher serum enterolactone concentrations were associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. This suggests that enterolactone may have a protective effect against breast cancer in this population, although the studies included in the meta-analysis exhibited high heterogeneity.
- https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/lignans – This resource provides general information about lignans, including their dietary sources and metabolism into enterolactone. It highlights the importance of gut microbiota in this conversion and the potential health benefits associated with lignan consumption.