Deep Dive
Aromatase (encoded by the CYP19A1 gene) is a cytochrome P450 enzyme that catalyses the conversion of androgens — including testosterone — into estrogens. It is found in fat tissue, the brain, gonads, skin, and bone.
Aromatase activity is heavily influenced by body fat. Fat cells contain high levels of aromatase, meaning the more body fat you have, the more Testosterone is converted into Estrogen. This creates a vicious cycle for men: high Estrogen promotes fat storage, which creates more aromatase, which destroys more Testosterone.
In women, excess aromatase activity can worsen Estrogen Dominance and is linked to conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer. Managing aromatase activity through body composition optimisation, targeted nutrition (cruciferous vegetables, zinc), and addressing insulin resistance is a key strategy in hormonal health.