Equol is a compound produced by gut bacteria during the metabolism of the soy isoflavone daidzein. It functions as a non-steroidal oestrogen and may offer various health benefits, including antioxidant and hormone-balancing effects. However, only some individuals harbour the specific gut bacteria capable of producing equol. Measuring equol in stool helps determine whether the gut microbiome can convert daidzein efficiently, providing insight into microbial diversity and function related to oestrogen metabolism.
Equol is a metabolite produced by gut bacteria from the soy isoflavone daidzein, and it exhibits oestrogen-like activity.
To determine whether your gut microbiome can convert daidzein into equol, which indicates specific microbial functionality.
Yes, equol is regarded as beneficial because of its antioxidant properties and its potential to support hormonal balance.
No, only around 30–50% of people have the gut bacteria required to produce equol from soy isoflavones.