This provides an overview of the benefits of soy isoflavones.
Isoflavones are a category of phytochemicals that are only found in plants. They are also a class of phytoestrogen in that they resemble and are used like the estrogen hormone that is produced by the human body. Isoflavones copy the way that natural estrogen is used but are weaker in form. Isoflavones are found in many legumes, particularly soybeans and garbanzos. Soybeans are generally used as the source for isoflavone supplements because the concentration of the compounds is higher.
Less known are many of the other benefits of soy isoflavones. Studies have shown that the antioxidant properties of soy isoflavones can help protect the cardiovascular system from LDL cholesterol or what is commonly referred to as bad cholesterol. Genistein, a component of isoflavones, inhibits the growth of plaque-causing cells in the arteries.
Another benefit is that soy isoflavones help to build bone strength and density. Several independent studies have indicated that daidzein, another component of isoflavones, prevents bones from deteriorating and breaking down with age.
Soy protein and isoflavones show evidence of being able to help the body fight and resist breast and prostate cancers. Many scientists are researching soy isoflavones to discover if they fight certain types of cancer as well as pharmaceutical medicines.
Studies have shown that the best way to introduce soy isoflavones into the body is by eating soy products including, tempeh, tofu, soymilk, texture soy protein, and of course, soybeans.
It is recommended that you introduce soy slowly into your diet until you become accustomed to both its taste and textures. Researchers suggest that you work up to around two servings per day to reap all the benefits of soy isoflavones.
Textured soy protein can be substituted for all or part of the ground meat in spaghetti sauces, meat loaves and any recipe calling for hamburger or ground turkey. Tofu can be used in place of cottage or ricotta cheese in most recipes or blended smooth for herb dips. You can replace cow's milk with soymilk in most recipes or drink soymilk straight.
Many soy isoflavone supplements are on the market today. Products include basic soy isoflavones and targeted combinations for other conditions. Most popular are the soy isoflavones with ingredients such as black cohosh and wild yam for relieving the symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, mood swings, and night sweats.
While the major sources of soy isoflavones will come from your diet, supplements can help to assure that you meet the suggested daily intake.
