BUY NOW!
Overview of Soy and Red Clover
Scientists classify soy isoflavones from the plant Glycine max as
phytoestrogens. Phyto is a Greek root word meaning plant, so phytoestrogens
are plant-based compounds that have estrogen-like activity. Because they are
structurally similar to estrogens, these compounds compete for placement on
cells receptor sites, just as estrogen does and exert estrogenic activity in
the body. However, when the body's estrogen levels are naturally low, such as
during menopause, there is insufficient amounts of estrogen to be fully
effective. Because of their estrogen-like effects, isoflavones have been
studied for a wide spectrum of health benefits from pre-menopausal symptoms to
heart health. Several studies have shown soy isoflavones have beneficial
effects on reducing menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats,
reduced libido, and vaginal dryness. As well, studies have shown that
isoflavones can reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering harmful
cholesterol (LDL) while improving healthy cholesterol levels (HDL). The
reduction of bone mineral density, which is a major contributor to
osteoporosis, may also be significantly improved by the intake of soy
isoflavones.
There are four major types of soy isoflavones called genistein, daidzein,
biochanin, and formononetin that are considered to be mainly responsible for
the health benefits associated with phytoestrogens.
Soy Isoflavones from Soybeans
Soybeans and soy foods like tofu are the best dietary source of isoflavones as
they contain the highest known amounts of genistein and daidzein, the most
powerful isoflavones. However, many soy protein concentrates and soy products
in the food supply may be processed with alcohol, which reduces if not
destroys the isoflavone content. In order to provide the most effective
product, all of our Soy products are processed using only water and are
derived from Soy that has not been genetically engineered.
Soy Isoflavones from Red Clover
Red clover, just as soy, is a member of the legume family. The unique point of
difference between isoflavones derived from red clover and those extracted
from soybeans is that red clover extracts contain all 4 different isoflavones
(genistein, daidzein, biochanin, and formononetin), while soybeans contain
only 2 (genistein and daidzein). Red clover also contains flavonoid compounds
called coumestans, which some studies suggest have six times more estrogen
like activity than isoflavones.
Dosage
Typical dosage is 30 to 60 mgs daily. Most conducted studies mentioned
above have been tested on levels of 25-100 mg of Soy Isoflavones administered
daily.
Cautions
-
Pregnant or lactating women should avoid taking soy isoflavone based
supplements.
-
If you are on kidney dialysis, consult a health care practitioner prior to
using Soy Isoflavones.
-
Studies have reported that Soy Isoflavones (phytoestrogens) act similar to the
body's natural hormone estrogen. If you have or are susceptible to hormonally
related cancers, such as breast, ovarian and prostate, consult your health
care practitioner prior to using Soy Isoflavones.
-
Individuals that are allergic to soybeans should avoid all soy isoflavone
based supplements. A high fiber diet may interfere with the absorption of soy
isoflavones. Boosting soy intake slightly more than the recommended amount may
be advisable.
-
Consuming large amounts of Soy Isoflavones could suppress thyroid function
and/or cause a worsening of hypothyroidism. If you have any type of
thyroid disease consult a health care practitioner prior to using Soy
Isoflavones.
-
There is some concern about the use of soy-based infant formulas. Research
indicates that exposing infants to high levels of soy isoflavones may cause
problems with the infant's hormonal development.
Brand
Supplementspot.
Availability
Usually ships the same business day.