From the Research
Safety of Bovine Supplements for Women with Hormonal Imbalances
- The safety of bovine supplements for women with hormonal imbalances is a complex issue, and there is limited research directly addressing this topic 1, 2, 3.
- Studies have investigated the presence of hormones in beef and their potential impact on human health, including the risk of exposure to hormonal growth promotants (HGP) 1, 3.
- One study estimated the daily intake of HGP from beef consumed by the US population and found that the highest estimated hazard quotients (HQs) were for melengestrol acetate (MGA) 1.
- Another study found that naturally occurring androgen excess cows are present in dairy and beef herds and have similar characteristics to women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 2.
- The use of hormonal treatments in cattle has also been studied, including the treatment of fertility disorders in cows 4.
- A study on the supplementation of corn dried distillers' grains plus solubles to gestating beef cows found that it increased uterine blood flow but decreased circulating estradiol-17β and progesterone concentrations and altered hepatic steroid metabolizing enzyme activity 5.
- Overall, while there is some evidence on the presence of hormones in beef and their potential impact on human health, more research is needed to fully understand the safety of bovine supplements for women with hormonal imbalances 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
Key Findings
- Estimated daily intake of HGP from beef consumed by the US population is generally low compared to current health-based intake limits 1.
- Naturally occurring androgen excess cows have similar characteristics to women with PCOS 2.
- Hormonal treatments can be used to treat fertility disorders in cows, but sustainable improvement of herd management is necessary to enhance reproductive performance 4.
- Supplementation of corn dried distillers' grains plus solubles to gestating beef cows can increase uterine blood flow but alter circulating hormone concentrations and hepatic enzyme activity 5.
Hormone Exposure and Risk
- Exposure to HGP and other hormones in beef may be a concern for human health, particularly for women with hormonal imbalances 1, 3.
- The potential risks associated with hormone exposure from beef consumption are not fully understood and require further study 3.
- The use of hormonal treatments in cattle and the presence of hormones in beef may have implications for human health, including the risk of breast cancer and other hormone-related disorders 3.