Phytoestrogens

Special Precautions of Phytoestrogens

• Some experts believe that isoflavones may actually behave as an anti-estrogen. This means that the isoflavones may impair the ability of estrogen to perform its roles in the body. In this case, consuming larger amounts of isoflavones may actually increase the chance of developing some diseases. Isoflavones are sometimes eaten for breast cancer prevention and as a cancer treatment. Ultimately, it is unclear if isoflavones have estrogenic or anti-estrogenic properties in the body. Though some experts have concluded that isoflavones may reduce a person's likelihood of developing some health problems, this idea is based on the prevalence of these diseases in cultures where these chemicals are a regular part of the foods in the diet.
• Although isoflavones were able to prevent growth of breast cancer cells, early evidence that plants produced estrogen-like compounds was first manifested in the infertility among sheep that ate large amounts of clover in Australia. Similarly, California Quails fed on the leaves of high-isoflavone desert annuals during periods of food shortage had reduced fertility.Studies using chemically pure isoflavones or plant materials with known concentrations of these compounds have indicated both positive and negative effects of isoflavones on disease progression and fertility.Studies on mice indicate that isoflavones may cause thymic and immune system abnormalities and reduction in immune system activity.There may be a link between soybean and health problems in certain animals.
• However, there is not agreement among how much isoflavones may help or harm a patient, because not enough well designed studies in humans have been conducted. The potential health risks and benefits of consuming isoflavones is currently under investigation.
• People who are trying to fall pregnant, those who have difficulty urinating under normal circumstances, breastfeeding moms, those with kidney problems and prostate cancer and anyone suffering from peanut allergies should avoid this ingredient.

The benefits of Phytoestrogens are

Phyoestrogens work in a similar manner like oestrogen. It helps to keep oestrogen levels in a normal rate, a point that is especially important in menopause where oestrogen levels in the body are already low. Phytooestrogens will not cause a person to have too much oestrogen as they will compete with existing oestrogen stores to bind to receptors when introduced.

• Breast Cancer : Studies show that breast cancer is lower in countries where the intake of phytoestrogens is high...implying that these compounds may reduce breast cancer risk," says Dr. Velentzis. "Isoflavones and lignans are the most common phytoestrogens in the diet." Dr. Velentzis says your best way to fight breast cancer is to increase your lignans intake.
• Reduce the symptoms of menopause
• Hot flashes : One study showed phytoestrogens greatly reducing hot flashes. Numerous other studies are finding positive effects for hot flashes and other perimenopausal symptoms, and more research is being conducted for this use of phytoestrogens.
• Improves heart health.
• Acne : Treating acne with phytoestrogens may also be possible. The idea is that estrogen counters androgens (male hormones), which can contribute to acne in women. Because phytoestrogens act similarly to estrogen, they may counter androgens and relieve or prevent acne as a result. Some research supports this, but more is needed.
• Osteoporosis prevention in women : Other studies show that phytoestrogens could help prevent bone loss in aging women. Natural estrogen is known to help maintain normal bone density. When women age, estrogen levels drop, making them more vulnerable to osteoporosis. Because phytoestrogens act much like estrogen, taking them may stop this from happening. Still, more research is needed before a doctor would advise this use.

Food Sources of Phytoestrogens

Phytoestrogens are compounds that naturally occur in plants. If you eat fruits, veggies, legumes, and some grains, you get phytoestrogens from your diet. A plant-based diet is very rich in natural phytoestrogens in healthy amounts, especially from soy and flax deeds Also Dong Quai, Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng, Sesame seeds and Red clover are good sources.