What Is an Isoflavone?

Compounds called isoflavones are found in soybeans as well as other plant sources. Isoflavones are considered good for women looking for relief from menopausal issues. Some studies show potential benefits of isoflavones for ailments beyond those associated with menopause, though these benefits are debated.

Classification

• Isoflavones belong to a class of organic compounds and are related to plant substances called phytoestrogens that mimic estrogen in the body.

Sources

• Large amounts of isoflavones are found in soybeans, while the red clover plant is another source.

Potential Risks

• The safety of isoflavones for children has been disputed, and pregnant women are advised to avoid isoflavone levels above those that can be obtained from food.

Women's Benefits

• Isoflavones help menopausal women by evening out their estrogen hormone levels, thus reducing their symptoms of menopause.

Other Benefits

• According to Lesa Werner, N.D. (a naturopathic doctor), isoflavones, particularly genstein, could possibly have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Men's Benefits

• In animal studies, the isoflavone genstein seemed to reduce the occurrence of prostate cancer markers, though studies on men with prostate cancer have remained inconclusive.