How Soy Isoflavones Increase Women's Health

How Soy Isoflavones Increase Women's Health
by: Greg Wirth



Soybeans, containing various phytochemicals, are one of richest source of isoflavones, also known as phytoestrogens. They contain about 36% protein, 18% fat, 30% carbohydrates, isoflavones and other minerals and vitamins.

Soy Isoflavones are similar to natural estrogens. They show both estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects. Soy isoflavones also act as antioxidant agent. Major constituents of soy isoflavones are genistein, daidzein, and glycitein.

May help prevent cancer

Soy Isoflavones are helpful in preventing various types of cancers - breast, lung and mouth cancer. They also find use in reducing risk of heart disease and osteoporosis. Soy isoflavones also help in increasing bone density.

Pregnant women and men with prostate cancer should avoid the use of soy isoflavone supplements. However since the preventative effects of isoflavones are particularly important for young women soy products should be included daily to increase the prevention of breast cancer. The low incidence of breast cancer in Asian women primarily from Japan and China could be explained by the high intake of soy isoflavones.[1]

Additionally a new study suggests isoflavones may prevent DNA damage to the immune system in postmenapausal women: Soy isoflavones from supplements and soymilk benefit the immune system of postmenopausal women The recommended serving contains 40-50 mg per day of soy isoflavones. Providing about 25 mg of genistin, 19 mg of daidzin and about 6 mg of glycitin.

More Information

One of the most comprehensive no-fluff sites of information on soy isoflavones is Isoflavones.info. If you are a women or young lady please take time to review that site for a better understanding of how isoflavones can keep you living long and healthy. Additionally be sure to review my site listed below for more information on using a high quality broad-spectrum vitamin supplement.

Greg S. Wirth

[1] Biological effects of a diet of soy protein rich in isoflavones on the menstrual cycle of premenopausal women. Cassidy A, Bingham S, Setchell KD. Am J Clin Nutr. 1994 Sep;60(3):333-40


About The Author
Greg Wirth is a nutritionist, author and consultant on multi-vitamin supplements. Focusing on pharmaceutical-grade vs food-grade supplementation. Please contact him at his website http://www.my- antioxidants-guide.com for specifics on the nutrient you are researching.