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How GSTP1 and Estrogen Metabolism Affect Hormone Health

Estrogen plays many important roles in the body beyond reproductive health. When estrogen is processed, it can form reactive byproducts called estrogen quinones. These byproducts can damage DNA if they are not effectively cleared. The GSTP1 gene makes an enzyme that helps neutralize and eliminate these harmful metabolites by using the antioxidant glutathione. Variations in GSTP1 can change how well this enzyme works and may influence hormone balance, cellular health, and fertility in men.

Why GSTP1 matters

  • GSTP1 contributes to detoxifying reactive estrogen metabolites that can cause oxidative stress and DNA damage.
  • Reduced GSTP1 activity can allow estrogen quinones to accumulate, increasing sensitivity to environmental toxins and potentially affecting fertility.
  • Supporting GSTP1-related pathways helps maintain healthy estrogen metabolism and overall cellular protection.

Practical steps to support estrogen clearance

Whether your GSTP1 genotype suggests lower or typical enzyme activity, lifestyle and dietary strategies can help maintain healthy detoxification:

  • Eat cruciferous vegetables daily (broccoli, cabbage, kale) to support detox enzymes.
  • Support glutathione production with protein rich foods plus asparagus, spinach, and avocado.
  • Consider antioxidants such as N-acetyl cysteine and resveratrol to reduce oxidative stress.
  • Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and reduce exposure to environmental chemicals like BPA and phthalates. Use glass or stainless containers instead of plastics when possible.
  • Support gut health with dietary fiber and a probiotic to promote elimination of toxins and balanced hormone reabsorption.
  • Maintain a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep to support hormone regulation and detox pathways.

Genetic interpretation: GSTP1 rs1695

The sections below explain common genotypes for the GSTP1 rs1695 variant and how they relate to enzyme activity, estrogen metabolite clearance, and practical lifestyle recommendations. Expand each box for details specific to your genotype.

2 effect alleles — GG genotype (reduced GSTP1 activity)

If you have the GG genotype you carry two copies of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with reduced GSTP1 enzyme activity. When GSTP1 activity is lower, your body may detoxify reactive estrogen metabolites like estrogen quinones less efficiently. Over time the buildup of these reactive byproducts can increase oxidative stress and may raise sensitivity to environmental toxins.

What this may mean for you

  • Increased likelihood of slower clearance of estrogen metabolites.
  • Greater benefit from dietary and lifestyle measures that support detoxification and antioxidant defenses.

Actionable recommendations

  • Cruciferous vegetables: aim for daily servings of broccoli, cabbage, kale or Brussels sprouts to upregulate detox enzymes.
  • Antioxidants: consider N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) to support glutathione and resveratrol to reduce oxidative stress. Typical supplemental ranges commonly used are NAC 600 to 1200 mg per day and resveratrol 100 to 400 mg per day. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting supplements.
  • Glutathione support: include high quality protein, asparagus, spinach, and avocado to supply precursors for glutathione production.
  • Avoid exposures: stop smoking, limit alcohol, and reduce contact with BPA, phthalates, and other endocrine disruptors. Use glass containers and avoid heating food in plastic.
  • Gut health: eat fiber rich foods and consider a probiotic to promote elimination of hormones through the digestive system.
  • Screening and monitoring: regular health screenings and hormone checks can help monitor balance and detect issues early.
1 effect allele — AG genotype (typical to normal GSTP1 activity)

If you have the AG genotype you carry one copy of the effect allele. This typically corresponds to normal or typical GSTP1 enzyme activity. Your capacity to neutralize reactive estrogen metabolites such as estrogen quinones is generally adequate. However, lifestyle and diet still influence how effectively detoxification pathways function.

What this may mean for you

  • GSTP1 activity is generally within a normal range, so your body usually clears estrogen metabolites effectively.
  • Supporting detox pathways can maintain optimal function and minimize oxidative stress.

Actionable recommendations

  • Nutrition: include 1 to 2 servings daily of cruciferous vegetables to sustain enzyme support.
  • Antioxidant support: NAC at 600 to 1200 mg daily and resveratrol at 100 to 400 mg daily are commonly used ranges to support glutathione and reduce oxidative stress. Confirm safety with your healthcare provider before using supplements.
  • Glutathione precursors: consume adequate protein plus asparagus, spinach, and avocado.
  • Reduce toxin exposure: avoid smoking, moderate alcohol intake, and minimize contact with plastics that contain BPA or phthalates.
  • Gut support: fiber and probiotics help eliminate hormones through digestion and maintain a healthy microbiome.
0 effect alleles — AA genotype (typical GSTP1 activity)

If you have the AA genotype you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This genotype is associated with typical GSTP1 enzyme activity. Your body is generally efficient at detoxifying reactive estrogen metabolites, which helps protect cells from DNA damage that can occur when these byproducts accumulate.

What this may mean for you

  • Normal GSTP1 activity supports effective clearance of estrogen quinones and related environmental toxins.
  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help preserve this protective function.

Actionable recommendations

  • Continue a balanced diet that includes cruciferous vegetables and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
  • Support glutathione through adequate protein and foods such as asparagus, spinach, and avocado.
  • Limit exposures to toxins by avoiding smoking, reducing alcohol, and choosing glass or stainless containers over plastic.
  • Promote gut health with fiber rich foods and consider a probiotic if recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Regular medical checkups and routine lab work can help track hormone balance and overall health.

Additional considerations

  • Blood tests: ask your healthcare provider about hormone panels or oxidative stress markers if you have symptoms of hormonal imbalance or fertility concerns.
  • Supplement safety: supplements can interact with medications or medical conditions. Always review any supplement plan with your healthcare provider.
  • Personal factors: age, overall health, medications, and environmental exposures all influence detox capacity and hormone balance. Genetics are one piece of the overall picture.

Final note

PlexusDx provides educational information about genetic predispositions and how they may relate to health and wellness. This content is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to diet, supplements, medications, or lifestyle based on genetic information.