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GSTP1 and Estrogen Detoxification: What Your Genotype Means for Hormone Balance

Estrogen is a central hormone for reproductive health and many other body systems. As estrogen is used and cleared by the body, reactive byproducts can form. The GSTP1 gene makes an enzyme that helps neutralize and remove these reactive estrogen metabolites. Variations in GSTP1 can change how well this detoxification works and may influence long-term exposure to oxidative metabolites. Below is an easy-to-understand explanation of what different GSTP1 rs1695 genotypes mean and practical, everyday ways to support healthy estrogen metabolism.

How GSTP1 affects estrogen metabolism

The GSTP1 enzyme helps conjugate and clear reactive estrogen quinones and other oxidative metabolites, reducing their ability to cause oxidative stress and cellular damage. When GSTP1 activity is reduced, these byproducts can persist longer. Lifestyle and dietary choices can strengthen detox pathways and antioxidant defenses regardless of genotype.

Core lifestyle and dietary strategies for all genotypes

  • Eat cruciferous vegetables daily: broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and cabbage help support natural detox pathways and may boost GST enzyme activity.
  • Support glutathione production: include cysteine-rich foods (eggs, garlic, onions), selenium sources (Brazil nuts, seafood in moderation), and vitamin C (citrus, bell peppers, strawberries).
  • Load up on antioxidants: berries, leafy greens, beets, and green tea help neutralize oxidative stress.
  • Prioritize fiber and gut health: whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fermented foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) help promote healthy elimination of estrogen metabolites through the gut.
  • Promote liver health: adequate protein, hydration, regular physical activity, and avoiding excess alcohol support phase 1 and phase 2 liver detoxification pathways.
  • Limit exposures that increase burden: avoid smoking, reduce processed foods and added sugars, and minimize contact with pesticides, endocrine disruptors, and unnecessary environmental toxins.
  • Maintain a healthy body weight: adipose tissue can store and produce hormones; maintaining a balanced weight supports hormonal balance.
  • Regular movement and sleep: exercise and restorative sleep support metabolic and detox processes.
Two effect alleles (GG) — reduced GSTP1 activity

What it means

Having the GG genotype at rs1695 is associated with lower GSTP1 enzyme activity. This may reduce the efficiency of clearing reactive estrogen quinones, allowing these metabolites to linger and contribute to oxidative stress.

Practical steps

  • Eat cruciferous vegetables daily: aim for a generous serving of broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts or cauliflower each day. Light steaming preserves beneficial compounds.
  • Boost glutathione precursors: include eggs, garlic, onions, and lean protein for cysteine; add 1–3 Brazil nuts a few times per week for selenium; eat citrus, bell peppers, and strawberries for vitamin C.
  • Increase antioxidant intake: include mixed berries, leafy greens, beets and green tea to lower oxidative stress.
  • Support the gut-liver axis: eat fiber-rich whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fermented foods like yogurt or kefir to help bind and remove estrogen metabolites.
  • Minimize exposures: avoid smoking, limit alcohol, choose organic produce when possible, and reduce use of plastics and personal care products with endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
  • Consider targeted testing with your clinician: if you have symptoms of hormone imbalance or a family history of hormone-related conditions, talk with your healthcare provider about relevant blood work or specialist referral.
One effect allele (AG) — intermediate GSTP1 activity

What it means

Carrying one G allele (AG) is associated with moderately reduced GSTP1 activity compared to the AA genotype. Your ability to detoxify reactive estrogen metabolites may be somewhat reduced, which makes supportive lifestyle and dietary choices particularly useful.

Practical steps

  • Make crucifers a daily habit: include broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts or cabbage regularly to stimulate detox pathways.
  • Support glutathione with food: eggs, garlic, onions, legumes and lean meats for cysteine; Brazil nuts in moderation for selenium; vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables.
  • Add antioxidant-rich foods: berries, green tea, dark leafy greens and colorful vegetables help protect cells from oxidative damage.
  • Prioritize fiber and fermented foods: oats, beans, whole grains and fermented vegetables help maintain gut bacteria that support estrogen elimination.
  • Reduce toxin exposure: avoid smoking, limit processed foods and reduce contact with household chemicals and unnecessary plastics.
  • Monitor symptoms and consult a clinician if concerned: discuss testing or monitoring strategies with your healthcare provider if you notice persistent hormonal changes.
No effect alleles (AA) — typical GSTP1 activity

What it means

The AA genotype is associated with typical GSTP1 enzyme activity and effective detoxification of reactive estrogen metabolites. Your body is likely efficient at clearing these byproducts, supporting balanced hormone metabolism.

Practical steps

  • Maintain a balanced diet with crucifers regularly: keep broccoli, kale and similar vegetables in rotation.
  • Continue supporting glutathione production: include foods like eggs, garlic, citrus, bell peppers and a few Brazil nuts per week for selenium.
  • Keep antioxidants and fiber high: berries, leafy greens, whole grains, legumes, and fermented foods help preserve detox efficiency.
  • Minimize exposures and support liver health: avoid smoking, limit alcohol, choose whole foods over processed options, and stay active.
  • Routine check-ins with your healthcare provider: maintain regular preventive care and discuss any hormone-related symptoms as they arise.

Practical meal and supplement ideas

  • Sample plate: grilled salmon or tofu, steamed broccoli and kale salad, quinoa or barley, and a mixed berry salad for dessert.
  • Daily snack: carrot sticks with hummus, a handful of mixed nuts with one Brazil nut, or an orange with a few almonds.
  • Tea: 1–2 cups of green tea per day for antioxidants.
  • Supplement considerations: most needs can be met with food. If you are thinking about supplements such as selenium, vitamin C, or a glutathione precursor, discuss dosage with your healthcare provider before starting.

When to talk with your healthcare provider

  • If you have symptoms of hormone imbalance such as irregular cycles, heavy bleeding, unexplained weight changes, or persistent fatigue.
  • If you have a personal or strong family history of hormone-related conditions and want personalized monitoring.
  • Before starting supplements, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or have chronic health conditions.

PlexusDx provides educational information about genetic predispositions and does not provide medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle based on genetic results.