Estrogen is a crucial hormone for the health of both women and men. It plays a role in fertility, mood, brain function, skin, bones, and heart health. But once estrogen has fulfilled its function, it must also be safely broken down. This is where the COMT gene (catechol-O-methyltransferase) comes into play.
In this article, we explain how estrogen is metabolized, what role COMT plays, and why genetic variations in this process can significantly affect your health.
🧬 What is COMT?
COMT is an enzyme that breaks down catechols — molecules with a specific structure found in:
- Estrogen metabolites (like 2-OH-estradiol)
- Neurotransmitters such as dopamine, adrenaline, and noradrenaline
- Plant compounds (catechols in tea, cocoa, coffee)
The COMT enzyme adds a methyl group to these substances to deactivate them and make them excretable.
🔄 Estrogen Metabolism: Where COMT Comes In
- Hydroxylation (Phase I - liver):
- CYP1A1 → 2-OH-estradiol (protective)
- CYP1B1 → 4-OH-estradiol (potentially harmful)
- CYP1A1 → 2-OH-estradiol (protective)
- Methylation (Phase II):
- COMT converts 2-OH and 4-OH estrogen into methoxy-estrogens
- → Safe, water-soluble, and excreted via urine or bile
- COMT converts 2-OH and 4-OH estrogen into methoxy-estrogens
📌 If COMT is slow (Met/Met):
- Build-up of estrogen metabolites
- Increased risk of DNA damage, oxidative stress, breast cancer
- Greater sensitivity to mood swings, irritability, anxiety
⚖️ Symptoms of Slow COMT Activity
🍽️ Supporting COMT & Estrogen Metabolism
✅ Do
- Support methylation: Folate (5-MTHF), B6, B12, magnesium
- Enhance liver function: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, milk thistle
- Eat fiber-rich foods: Promotes elimination via the gut
- Exercise & sleep: Supports hormonal balance
❌ Avoid (with slow COMT)
- Excessive caffeine, green tea extract (EGCG)
- Alcohol (increases estrogen and inhibits detox)
- Too many phytoestrogens (soy, flaxseed in overload)
- Chronic stress (raises adrenaline and estrogen)
🧠 Final Thoughts
The COMT gene plays a key role in the safety and balance of estrogen metabolites. Slow COMT activity can contribute to estrogen dominance, mood disorders, and increased sensitivity to hormone-related conditions.
By supporting methylation, enhancing detox pathways, and managing stimulation, you can restore balance and optimize both your mood and hormonal health.