Evidence supporting the use of: Isoflavones
For the body system: Estrogen
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Isoflavones are a class of phytoestrogens—plant-derived compounds with estrogen-like activity—most commonly found in soybeans and other legumes. Their use to support the estrogen body system is primarily grounded in scientific research, although traditional usage (e.g., in Asian diets) also exists. Isoflavones, particularly genistein and daidzein, can bind to estrogen receptors and exert weak estrogenic or anti-estrogenic effects depending on the hormonal environment. Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have evaluated isoflavones for menopausal symptom relief, bone health, and cardiovascular risk markers in postmenopausal women. The results are mixed but generally suggest modest benefits, particularly for reducing hot flashes and improving markers of bone health. The evidence is strongest for alleviation of vasomotor symptoms (such as hot flashes), with some studies showing a reduction in frequency and severity compared to placebo. However, effects on bone density and cardiovascular markers are less robust and sometimes inconsistent. Major health authorities and systematic reviews conclude that isoflavones have mild estrogenic effects and may be beneficial for some menopausal symptoms, but they are not as effective as conventional hormone replacement therapy. Overall, the scientific evidence supports the use of isoflavones for mild estrogenic support, particularly for menopausal symptoms, but the magnitude of benefit is moderate and not universal.
Other ingredients that support Estrogen
7-hydroxymatairesinol (HMR)black cohosh
chaste tree
d-glucarate
daidzin
dandelion
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
DIM (diindolylmethane)
dong quai root
fennel
flaxseed
genistein
genistin
ginseng
HMR lignan
hops
indole-3-carbinol
licorice root
lignans
maca
sage
secoisolariciresinol diglucoside
soybean
spearmint leaf
vitamin B6
vitamin E
wild yam
red clover
anise
yarrow
dioscorea
Equol (proprietary)
soy isoflavones
27-deoxyactein
4-Hydroxyandrostenedione
8-Prenylnaringenin
Agnuside
Anti-aromatase
Brassica
Bugbane
biochanin
Barbasco
Cohosh
Clary sage
Cruciferous
Casticin
Coumesterol
DHEA
Daidzein
Dong Quai
Diosgenin
formononetin
Ginsenosides
Glycetein
Glabridin
Isoflavones
Soy Protein
Other body systems supported by Isoflavones
BreastsEstrogen
Female Reproductive System
Ovaries
Prostate
Reproductive System
Skeletal System (Bones)
Uterus
Vagina