Soy isoflavones

Soy (Glycine max) is a legume and a favourite food not only for people with dairy allergies or intolerances, but also for women suffering with symptoms of the menopause. This is because it contains isoflavones, also called phytoestrogens, in particular genistein and daidzin. Many of the health benefits of the Japanese diet are attributed to the high consumption of soy.

Phytoestrogens possess the ability to modulate human oestrogen biology and consequently exert biological effects. Oestrogen receptors affect the function of skin, musculoskeletal system, weight control, libido, hot flushes and have a diverse range of physiological effects. Many of these functions are adversely affected with decreased oestrogen associated with the menopause.

Soy is found in soy milk, tofu, soybeans (edamame)

1 cup soy milk contains 6.2 mg isoflavones

½ cup edamame contains 16 mg isoflavones

Benefits:

1. May reduce hot-flushes in menopause
2. Reported to improve bone mineral density in cases of osteoporosis
3. Antioxidant benefits
4. Cardiovascular and blood pressure benefits

Did you know...

When extracted from plants the phytoestrogens are inactive but can be converted to the active form by bacteria (or probiotics) in the gut.