Phenols are organic compounds that gut bacteria produce during the fermentation of certain amino acids, especially tyrosine. Some phenols, like p-cresol, can be toxic at high levels and are linked to dysbiosis or imbalances in gut microbiota. Increased phenol levels in stool indicate microbial activity that may strain the liver’s detoxification functions. Tracking phenols helps evaluate how effectively the gut is handling protein breakdown and microbial fermentation.
Phenols are compounds produced by gut bacteria during protein fermentation, especially from tyrosine.
Yes, elevated phenols can be toxic and may indicate microbial overgrowth or a strain on detoxification pathways.
Diet (particularly high-protein consumption), gut microbiota composition, and intestinal transit time can all impact phenol levels.