The plant-based polyphenol compounds known as phytoestrogens have a structure similar to the most potent human estrogen hormone estradiol, according to the journal "Integrative Medicine." Phytoestrogens are present in a variety of whole grains, fruits and vegetables. There are three main categories of phytoestrogens: lignans, which are found in flaxseed; coumestans, present in alfalfa, clover and soybean sprouts; and isoflavones, found in legumes, particularly soy. Phytoestrogens possess a variety of health benefits, including anti-viral activity and estrogenic effects. Consult your doctor before taking any supplement.
Alzheimer's and Breast Cancer Prevention
A study published in the journal of "Neurotoxicology and Teratology" indicated that phytoestrogens prevent Alzheimer's disease and cancer. Phyto-rich diets promoted greater visual-spatial memory than diets without phytoestrogens, researchers found.
Breast cancer is second-most common malignant cause of death in women. "Integrative Medicine" indicates that there is a direct relationship between phyto-rich diets and lower risk of breast cancer. It is thought that isoflavone- and lignan-rich diets introduced early in adolescence may protect against the development of breast cancer in adulthood.
Anti-Viral Effects
Research published in "Phytochemistry" reports that phytoestrogens exert anti-viral properties. A report in "Food and Chemical Toxicology," meanwhile, indicated that phytoestrogens, especially lignans and isoflavones, have immunomodulatory effects. Further, some phytoestrogen compounds showed moderate anti-viral activity against the cytomegalovirus, according to a study published in the journal "Antiviral Research."
Cholesterol-Lowering Effects
In addition to acting as a great alternative therapy for menopause, phytoestrogens, particularly the isoflavones, have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels, research published in "Clinical Gynecology" concluded. Although not a consistent finding, phytoestrogens taken in doses from 30 to 60 milligrams not only reduced the incidence of hot flashes, but also lowered cholesterol in many menopausal patients.
References
- "Food and Chemical Toxicology"; Phytoestrogens and Phytoestrogen Metabolites Differentially Modulate Immune Parameters in Human Leukocytes; Sandra Gredel, Ph.D.; Dec. 1, 2008
- "Phytochemistry"; Does an Apple a Day Keep the Doctor Away Because a Phytoestrogen a Day Keeps the Virus at Bay? A Review of the Anti-viral Properties of Phytoestrogens; J. H. Martin, Ph.D.; Feb. 1, 2007
- "Neurotoxicology and Teratology"; Neurobehavioral Effects of Dietary Soy Phytoestrogens; Edwin Lephart, Ph.D., et al.; Jan-Feb 2002
- "Integrative Medicine" 2nd ed.; David Rakel, M.D.; 2007
- "Comprehensive Gynecology" 5th ed.; Vern Katz, M.D., et al.; 2007
- "Drug Testing and Analysis"; Phytoestrogenic Isoflavonoids in Epidemiologic and Clinical Research; Adrian Franke, Ph.D., et al.; Nov. 6, 2008
