Soy isoflavones are phytochemicals found in soybeans and have been shown to have various health benefits, including replacing natural estrogen in women during and after menopause and protecting the cardiovascular system. Soyfoods are a good source of soy isoflavones and can replace meat in almost any recipe. Soy isoflavone supplements are also available, particularly for menopausal women.
Soy isoflavones are phytochemicals and are found in the soybean plant. They were discovered while scientists were investigating the longevity of Asians relative to people in the Western world. They concluded that the significant difference in diet was in soy consumption. This discovery led to further studies on the soybean plant itself, and in these studies isoflavones were discovered.
A critical discovery related to isoflavones was that of a particular class of isoflavones known as phytoestrogens. Women’s bodies need estrogen during and after menopause. The phytoestrogen found in soybeans and soy products help replace natural estrogen as women stop making enough of it.
This has become extremely important for women approaching menopausal age since the discovery that other forms of HRT have serious side effects.
Soy isoflavones have also been shown to be good antioxidants and help protect the cardiovascular system from bad or LDL cholesterol. Studies have shown that another element of soy isoflavones is genistein, which protects the growth of plaque in the arteries.
Independent research has also shown that soy isoflavones build bone density and help prevent bone deterioration due to the compound daidzein along with genistein.
New studies are investigating the benefits of soy isoflavones in the prevention of cancer, particularly breast and prostate. Other research suggests that soy isoflavones may be effective in fighting cancer and pharmaceutical drugs.
The best way to take advantage of soy isoflavones is by eating soy products, including tofu, textured soy protein, soy milk, and eating the beans. Many nutritionists consider soyfoods a “perfect” food. Not only do they contain plenty of soy isoflavones, but they are a good source of all the major vitamins and proteins.
Soyfoods can replace meat, especially red meat, in almost any recipe. No longer found only in health food stores, soyfoods can be purchased at almost any grocery store and even some convenience stores.
Soyfoods are a staple of vegetarian and vegan diets; Many of those who live without eating meat report having fewer problems with blood pressure, cholesterol, and obesity.
Some claim that it is beneficial to include a soy isoflavone supplement in your diet; These supplements are available at most health food and vitamin stores. Many products are also available specially formulated for menopausal and premenopausal women; These products contain soy isoflavones along with other herbs and are intended to control hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.
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