Soy (Glycine max)


Hormone, Bone Health and Cholesterol Balance

Soy isoflavoneSoy and its major components daidzein and genistein, has estrogenic effects and can acts as an  estrogen-modulator in both men and women. Soy also has cholesterol-lowering, antioxidant and anti-cancer effects.

Soy has been shown to:

  • lower the risk of cardiovascular disease
    (a health claim allowed by the FDA) 24-27
  • exert anti-cancer effects (may help prevent and even treat cancer, especially breast and prostate cancer) 10-23
  • lower cholesterol levels 1-9
  • increase bone density and decrease bone mineral loss 28-33
  • improve insulin sensitivity 34-35
  • improve menopausal symptoms 36-40
  • possess antioxidant properties 41-45

Soy may therefore be useful in:

  • Cancer prevention and treatment
  • Heart disease
  • High cholesterol
  • Menopause symptoms
  • Osteoporosis prevention and treatment

Allergy to soy can cause bowel gas and discomfort; raw soy products may inhibit thyroid function. In sensitive individuals, the benefits of soy may be obtained and the GI effects avoided by using the purified soy capsules.

Soy Extract (Isoflavone-250) Soy Isoflavones Benefit Both Women & Men

Beneficial substances in soy, (isoflavones, diadzen, and genisteins) have been shown to lower cholesterol levels, normalize male and female hormone balance, and prevent cancer. Soy is also used in the treatment of cancer, especially prostate and some types of breast cancers. (Physician guidance highly recommended here as soy can increase hormone levels when this is not desired).

Suggested dose: 1cap, once or twice per day with a meal. Higher doses may be used if needed to relieve menopausal hot flashes or as recommended by a physician for treatment of cancer or cholesterol levels.

References:

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