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Soy isoflavones are classified as phytoestrogens which are found
in relatively high concentrations in soybeans. Phytoestrogens are
plant-derived nonsteroidal substances that possess estrogen-like
biological activity. Soy isoflavones possess both weak estrogenic
and weak anti-estrogenic effects. Their presence in soy foods may
offer some explanation as to why people living in countries where
soy products are a big part of the diet do not suffer from as many
or as frequent hot flashes and other menopause related difficulties.
It might possibly even explain why rates of certain hormone-linked
cancers are lower in Asia than they are in other parts of the world,
including the United States.
Two types of isoflavones in soy,
genistein and daidzein, may also offer both antioxidant and
phytoestrogenic properties which appear to protect against some
hormone-related disorders such as breast cancer and endometriosis.
They do this by competing for the same place on cells that the
body's own estrogen does. Saponins, a similar substance found in
soy, enhance immune function and combine with cholesterol whereby
inhibiting its absorption by the body. Phytosterols and other
substances in soy have also been reported to be helpful in lower
cholesterol levels and protecting against heart disease.
Soy
isoflavones may aid women and men in maintaining bone mineral
density, whereby preventing osteoporosis. Although the use of soy in
the prevention of osteoporosis offers hope, no conclusive human
studies have substantiated these effects.
Recommended
Dosage
The best way to gain the benefits of soy is
by having a diet that incorporates substantial amounts of soy.
Although there is not suggested intake of soy, researchers suggest
that supplementation equivalent of one serving of soy per day is
healthy. Societies in which large amounts of soy are consumed ingest
from 50 and 100 mg daily of soy isoflavones.
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