Evidence supporting the use of: Soy Protein
For the body system: Estrogen
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Soy protein is used to support the estrogen body system primarily due to its content of isoflavones, which are phytoestrogens—plant compounds structurally similar to human estrogen. Scientific studies have shown that isoflavones such as genistein and daidzein can bind to estrogen receptors and exert weak estrogenic or anti-estrogenic effects. Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have investigated the impact of soy protein and isoflavone supplementation on symptoms associated with low estrogen, especially in postmenopausal women. Results indicate moderate effectiveness in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes, though effects on other menopausal symptoms, bone density, and cardiovascular health are mixed and often modest.
The evidence supporting soy protein’s direct impact on the estrogen system is considered moderate (rated 3 out of 5). While some studies show statistically significant benefits, others report little or no effect, and the overall magnitude of benefit is generally small. Additionally, the estrogenic potency of soy isoflavones is much lower than that of endogenous estrogen, and individual response varies depending on gut microbiota and other factors. Health authorities such as the North American Menopause Society recognize soy isoflavones as a possible but mild option for menopausal symptom relief. There is also a long history of soy consumption in Asian diets, but the use of soy specifically to modulate estrogen is based on scientific, not traditional, rationale.
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
Isoflavones
Soy Protein
Other body systems supported by Soy Protein
BloodCirculatory System
Estrogen
Female Reproductive System
Heart
Immune System
Liver
Muscles
Prostate
Skeletal System (Bones)
Skin
Small Intestines