Phytoestrogens are plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen and offer health benefits, found in soy foods, flaxseeds, and whole grains. They can be assimilated and processed by the body, but excessive consumption can have unfavorable effects. Some herbal formulations and supplements containing phytoestrogen extracts are marketed for their health effects, but their long-term efficacy and safety have not been sufficiently researched.
A phytoestrogen is a plant-based compound that can act like the hormone, estrogen produced by the body. It is considered to offer some health benefits, such as reducing the severity of symptoms caused by menopause. Soy foods, flaxseeds, and whole grains are among the dietary sources of these plant hormones. Some herbal formulations and supplements containing phytoestrogen extracts are marketed for their health effects.
Phytoestrogen compounds structurally resemble the natural estrogen produced by the body. Plant estrogens are considered milder than women’s intrinsic estrogen. Due to their chemical structure, phytoestrogens have a propensity to bind to a particular estrogen receptor, a protein molecule in a cell to which certain types of molecules can bind. This is believed to be one of the underlying mechanisms by which phytoestrogen compounds can have an effect in the body. Scientists have detected the presence of phytoestrogens in blood and urine samples, indicating that these plant hormones can be assimilated and processed by the body.
Plant estrogens are present in a wide variety of foods; For example, a class of phytoestrogenic compounds called isoflavones are typically found in soy foods such as edamame, tofu, and soy milk. Flax seeds, dried beans, lentils, and whole grains often contain a form of phytoestrogens called lignans. Some of the vegetables and fruits that are considered a good source of phytoestrogens include sweet potatoes, carrots, asparagus, apples, cherries, and dates. These plant hormones can also be found in garlic and parsley. Therefore, one could incorporate foods that are natural sources of phytoestrogens into the diet for their health benefits.
Some population-based studies indicate a lower incidence of menopausal complaints such as hot flashes in Asian women consuming soyfoods. Asian diets that typically include foods rich in phytoestrogens have been correlated with a lower risk of prostate cancer. Studies indicate that the phytoestrogen, isoflavone, may help control cholesterol levels and may protect against osteoporosis. Foods rich in phytoestrogens when consumed in excess can have some unfavorable effects, such as lowering a man’s sperm count, for example.
Some of the alternative remedies and dietary supplements commonly available in pharmacies and health food stores contain phytoestrogenic extracts. These products may be in the form of isoflavone pills or made from herbs such as red clover, chaste tree, and black cohosh. Women sometimes turn to phytoestrogen products as a natural way to relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. However, these products are not adequately regulated and their long-term efficacy and safety have not been sufficiently researched. High-dose phytoestrogens may be contraindicated in people who have been diagnosed with specific conditions such as estrogen-sensitive breast cancer, so it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking plant estrogen in the form of herbal extracts or supplements.
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