The Gillett Health Podcast

Bioidentical V.S. Non-Bioidentical Hormones

Jan 2, 2026
Guest
Dan Bristow
Dr. Dan Bristow, an OB-GYN physician with expertise in hormone therapy, dives into the critical differences between bioidentical and synthetic hormones. He sheds light on the cautious stance of ACOG regarding compounded bioidentical hormones and discusses the nuances of various hormone formulations. The conversation also explores how the gut enzyme beta-glucuronidase may influence estrogen levels and conditions like PCOS and endometriosis. Dan recommends lifestyle changes, including diet and probiotics, to modulate this enzyme for better women's health outcomes.
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INSIGHT

ACOG's Caution On Bioidentical Claims

  • ACOG warns against marketing claims around "bioidentical" hormones because compounded products lack standard FDA evidence.
  • Bioidentical means chemically identical to human hormones, but evidence of superiority is limited.
ADVICE

Prefer FDA-Approved Bioidenticals For Consistency

  • Use FDA-approved commercial bioidentical products when consistency, purity, and known dosing matter.
  • Consider compounded formulations only after weighing variability and lack of standardization.
INSIGHT

Why Choose Synthetic Over Bioidentical

  • Synthetic hormones can be chosen to exploit specific receptor profiles and therapeutic effects.
  • Bioidentical isn't inherently better; synthetic progestins may control bleeding or provide anti-androgen effects better.
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