Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) is a plant lignan predominantly found in flaxseed. It is metabolized by intestinal bacteria into enterolignans (enterodiol and enterolactone), which are phytoestrogens—compounds that can weakly mimic or modulate estrogen activity in the human body. The potential for SDG to support the "Specific Hormones" body system, particularly regarding estrogen and related hormone balance, is supported by a moderate body of scientific evidence, though human clinical research is limited and sometimes inconclusive.

Preclinical studies and small human trials suggest that SDG and its metabolites may exert mild estrogenic or anti-estrogenic effects depending on the endogenous hormonal environment. For example, some research indicates that SDG may help modulate menstrual cycle irregularities, reduce menopausal symptoms, and possibly lower the risk of hormone-related cancers such as breast cancer, through effects on estrogen metabolism and receptor activity (Thompson et al., 2009). SDG has also been studied for its potential to lower serum estrogen levels and influence sex hormone-binding globulin.

However, the majority of evidence consists of observational studies, animal experiments, and short-term interventions; large-scale, long-term randomized controlled trials are lacking. Therefore, while the mechanistic rationale and preliminary data are promising, the strength of scientific evidence is moderate (rated 3/5) and further research is warranted to confirm SDG’s specific hormonal benefits in humans.

More about secoisolariciresinol diglucoside
More about Specific Hormones

Other ingredients that support Specific Hormones

Other body systems supported by secoisolariciresinol diglucoside

Products containing secoisolariciresinol diglucoside