Bioflavonoids are phytochemicals, described as natural compounds found in plants that may have health benefits in certain circumstances. Soy and soy foods are a source of isoflavones, which is one subgroup of bioflavonoids. They're also available as supplements. Speak with your doctor before taking soy isoflavone supplements.
Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids, which are also known as flavonoids, are members of one of the categories of a larger group of phytochemicals called polyphenols. Bioflavonoids are mostly found in fruits and vegetables and they may help to reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. There are several types of bioflavonoids found in plant-based foods: flavonols, flavones, flavonones and isoflavones.
Isoflavones
Isoflavones are bioflavonoids that have some structural similarities to estradiol, one form of the female hormone estrogen. They're not actually steroids, like estrogen, but their chemical configurations give them hormonelike properties. Isoflavones can bind to the estrogen receptors in your body, and also have biological properties similar to estrogen. They're classified as phytoestrogens. Isoflavones are mostly found in legumes, especially soy and soy foods.
Soy Isoflavones
Soy isoflavones bind to estrogen receptors in your body and either strengthen or reduce the effects of natural estrogen. Soy may help reduce the symptoms of menopause, and reduce your risk of heart disease and osteoporosis. Studies indicate they may possibly help prevent hormone-related malignancies, such as breast, prostate and endometrial cancer, according to information published by the University of Maryland Medical Center. Soy contains other nutrients as well, including omega-3 fatty acids and soy protein. The benefits of soy and soy foods may come from the combination of isoflavones and those other nutrients.
Precautions
Soy isoflavones may interfere with tamoxifen, which is a drug used to treat breast cancer; and raloxifene, which is used to prevent or treat osteoporosis. Zinc and iron supplements may interfere with the amount of soy your intestinal tract can absorb, so they could possibly lower the levels of soy in your body. Don't take soy isoflavones if you're allergic to soy. Side effects of soy isoflavones include stomach pain, constipation and diarrhea.
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