Beta-glucuronidase

Beta-glucuronidase is an enzyme that is used to digest carbohydrates and is a product of E. coli and anaerobic bacteria (bacteroides and clostridia). It is a key component of phase II detoxification (glucuronidation pathway) that helps clear pharmaceuticals, carcinogens, bile acids, and estrogen. Low levels would suggest a lack of E. coli and anaerobes or an overutilization of the glucuronidation pathway due to high toxic load. This can be difficult to interpret. But we generally want more beta-glucuronidase.

If low levels, replenish healthy bacteria and reduce toxic load.

High levels of beta glucuronidase inhibits this glucuronidation process to detoxify the body from both natural hormones (ex: estrogens) and various environmental toxins.

High levels of beta-glucuronidase in the stool can be caused by a number of factors which are primarily due to the following diet and lifestyle habits:

– High fat diet
– Processed food consumption
– Sugar consumption
– Alcohol consumption
– Smoking

Taking antibiotics can also increase beta-glucuronidase as antibiotics destroy gut bacteria.

The following cancers have been identified with high beta-glucuronidase levels:

– Colon cancer
– Prostate cancer
– Breast cancer

How to lower Beta-glucuronidase levels?

In order to maintain good health and to lower the risk of the above referenced cancers, it is important to keep beta-glucuronidase activity low but sufficient enough to assist in the nutrient absorption process. Adhering to a low fat, whole food plant-based diet could be an important step to decrease Beta-glucuronidase

There are also some specific natural substances that may lower Beta-glucuronidase:

– Apple Pectin
– Calcium, iron, magnesium
– Calcium-D-Glucarate
– Milk thistle (Silymarin)
– Cumin / black pepper
– Fenugreek Seeds