What is S-Equol?
S-Equol is an active metabolite of the isoflavone daidzein, produced exclusively by the action of the intestinal microbiota. Population studies show several benefits for women’s health, mainly the mitigation of menopausal symptoms. However, only 30% to 50% of the human population can synthesize s-equol from daidzein. Genetic factors, the intestinal microbiota and the other factors that influence its composition such as age, diet and intestinal transit time are related to the individual’s ability to produce s-equol.
The biological efficiency of this substance is due to its greater affinity for beta-type estrogenic receptors, antiandrogenic property and potent antioxidant activity. The conversion of non-producing individuals to s-equol producers, through the modulation of the intestinal microbiota and supplementation of s-equol, has been suggested as alternatives for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases.
How does S-equol act on estrogen receptors?
It mimics the action of estriol in the body, combating the symptoms of menopause caused by the drop in estrogen levels in the woman’s body. Similar to the hormone estriol, S-equol has an affinity for beta-type estrogen receptors and due to this selectivity, it acts mainly on bone tissue, in the cardiovascular and cerebral system, in addition to reducing hot flashes (hot flushes) caused by menopause.
Structural similarity of the estriol and s-equol molecule
Estriol
S-Equol
Effectiveness proven by clinical studies
- Reduction of hot flushes (10 mg / day for 12 weeks)
- Improvement of vaginal atrophy (10 mg / day for 8 months)
- Increase in bone density (10 mg / day for 1 year)
- Reduction of wrinkles 10 mg / day for 12 weeks)
Sources
- The North American Menopause Society. Overview of menopause. Available at: http://www.menopause.org/docs/2012/cg_a.pdf/sfvrsn=2.
- Wolff, J. (2018). Doctors don’t know how to treat menopause symptoms. Available at: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2018/menopause-symptoms-doctors-relief-treatment.html.
- Sarrel et al. Incremental direct and indirect costs of untreated vasomotor symptoms. Menopause. 2015; 22(3):260-266.
- Aso T, Uchiyama S, Matsumura Y et al. A natural S-equol supplement alleviates hot flushes and other menopausal symptoms in equol non-producing postmenopausal Japanese women. J Women’s Health 2012; 21(1):92-100
