| Preliminary data suggests that phytoestrogens can have a positive impact on menopausal symptoms, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis (Murkies, 1998; Kurzer & Xu, 1997).
An in vitro study has shown that hop extracts antagonize the stimulatory effect of exogenous gonadotropin (PMSG) on estradiol secretion from ovarian cells via the adenylate cylcase system. (Okamoto & Kumai, 1992).
Analysis of beer extracts utilizing gas chromatography and mass spectrometry identified two phytoestrogenic substances: genistein and daidzein. |
Richard Beliveau, Ph.D. and Denis Gingras, Ph.D.
See book keywords and concepts |  This is at the heart of the current dilemma concerning phytoestrogens during menopause: many North American and European women now consume enormous quantities of these molecules, in amounts that have no relation to the amounts present in a traditional Asian diet. We must remember that Asians generally consume about 40 to 60 grams of whole soy per day, which corresponds to a maximum isoflavone content of 60 milligrams. |
Bradley J. Willcox, M.D., D. Craig Willcox, Ph.D., Makoto Suzuki, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts |  Soy is packed with plant compounds called phytoestrogens that are powerful antioxidants known for their heart-healthy and cancer-busting effects. phytoestrogens (such as isoflavones from soy and lignans from flax) also have a positive effect on cholesterol concentration and blood clots, and they even make the blood vessels less stiff.18 The tofu in Okinawa is lower in water content than Japanese tofu and higher in healthy fat and protein. |
Michael Friedman, ND
See book keywords and concepts |  Bio-indentical progesterone cream can also be combined with oral phytoestrogens.
Bio-identical Estrogen: If symptoms persist, or if risk modification is paramount, bio-identical estrogen cream treatment can be implemented. This is typically done using a "biest" (estradiol and estriol) or a "triest" (estrone, estradiol, estriol) product, always combined with progesterone treatment. Typical "triest" formulas from compounding pharmacies contain 80% estriol, 10% estrone, and 10% estradiol, thus promoting a healthy estrogen quotient. |
by Michael Murray, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D.
See book keywords and concepts | | NUTRITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Flaxseeds are an excellent source of the omega-3 essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), as well as phytoestrogens known as lignans. They are a very good source of dietary fiber, magnesium, potassium, and manganese. They are also a good source of the minerals phosphorous, iron, and copper.
HEALTH BENEFITS
The major health benefits of flaxseeds are derived from their alpha-linolenic acid and lignan content. |
Michael Friedman, ND
See book keywords and concepts | | Reprinted by permission of the author)
ENDOCRINE DISRUPTORS
Endocrine disruptors are man-made synthedc chemicals and natural phytoestrogens (naturally occurring plant-derived estrogen, a hormone) that interfere with the endocrine systems of humans and animals by mimicking, blocking, and/or interfering in some manner with the natural instructions of hormones to cells. The resulting disruption creates many problems with physical development, sex, reproduction, brain development, behavior, temperature regulation, and more. | | Soy is probably the best known nutritional source of phytoestrogens. Soy has been shown to reduce hot flashes, increase bone density, improve lipid profiles, and inhibit reproductive cancers.
Low-fat, Low-glycemic Diet: A diet low in saturated and trans fats, adequate in essential fats, avoiding high glycemic foods, and regular aerobic and weight bearing exercise can help prevent the negative effects of menopause on serum lipids and bone density.
Nutritional Supplements
Vitamin E (800-1200 IU/day) and evening primrose oil (2000-3000 mg/day) may be helpful in treating the vasomotor symptoms. |
Richard Beliveau, Ph.D. and Denis Gingras, Ph.D.
See book keywords and concepts | | An interesting and important characteristic of isoflavones is their striking resemblance, at the molecular level, to the class of female sex hormones known as estrogens; this is this reason isoflavones are often referred to as phytoestrogens (Figure 24). Most researchers interested in the anti-cancer potential of isoflavones in soybeans believe genistein to be the primary molecule responsible for that potential, due to its ability to block the action of enzymes involved in the uncontrolled proliferation of tumour cells and thus stop cell growth outright. |
Michael Friedman, ND
See book keywords and concepts | | The mechanism of action appears to be similar to other phytoestrogens, as pharmacological studies have shown a weak estrogen binding activity in vitro. Black cohosh extracts have been shown to suppress LH levels and cause peripheral vasodilation in humans. Black cohosh is also known to be anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, mildly sedating, and spasmolytic.
Estrogenic and Progesterogenic Herbs: Many other botanicals have estrogenic or progesterogenic effects. For this reason combination products are commonly seen containing a mix of estrogenic and progesterogenic herbs. |
The Editors of FC&A
See book keywords and concepts | | Eating plant foods with phytoestrogens can give you some of the protective benefits of estrogen. Good sources include oats, wheat, corn, apples, almonds, cashews, and peanuts.
A specific kind of phytoestrogen, called isoflavones, are found mostly in soy-based foods like soybeans, tofu, miso, and soy nuts. Asian women who eat one type of soy food every day report very few hot flashes and mood swings during menopause. This could mean they're getting some estrogen from their diet.
Unfortunately, experts have concerns. |
Russell L. Blaylock, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts |  Of special concern are soy-based formulas, since they too are high in free glutamate as well as phytoestrogens.
One of MSG's more alarming properties is its affect on anger. Researchers who injected MSG in microscopic concentrations into the hypothalami of test animals' brains were able to produce intense rage reactions in the subjects232—a not-unexpected effect since the hypothalamus is an integral part of the brain's limbic system, the complex of nuclei concerned with emotional elaboration. |
by Michael Murray, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D.
See book keywords and concepts | | Fennel also contains phytoestrogens, making it useful as a remedy for many female complaints, especially symptoms of menopause.
Fennel extract may also turn out to be effective in the treatment of idiopathic hirsutism, the occurrence of excessive male-pattern hair growth in women who have a normal ovulatory menstrual cycle and normal levels of serum androgens. In a double-blind study, thirty-eight patients were treated with creams containing 1% and 2% of fennel extract or placebo (0%). Hair diameter and the rate of growth were measured to judge effectness. | | The consumption of soy foods is the most economical, and possibly the most beneficial, way to increase the intake of phytoestrogens. Vitamin B6 also has an effect on the metabolism of estrogen. Vitamin B6 is high in yams, leafy green vegetables, and legumes.
Excessive salt (sodium chloride) consumption, coupled with diminished dietary potassium, greatly stresses the kidneys' ability to maintain proper fluid volume. As a result, some people are "salt-sensitive," in that high salt intake causes high blood pressure or, in other cases, water retention. | | In addition, a diet rich in phytoestrogens results in a decreased frequency of breast, colon, and prostate cancers. Furthermore, it is important to increase the consumption of soy foods. Clinical studies have shown eating soy foods (the equivalent of 2A cup of soybeans daily) to be effective in relieving hot flashes and vaginal atrophy. | | The two isoflavones found in soy—daidzein and genistein—act as phytoestrogens, naturally occurring plant compounds that bind to estrogen receptor sites in human cells, including breast cells. By blocking these receptors, they reduce the effects of estrogen. This action does not disrupt the normal reproductive and fertility functions of estrogen but may counteract some of its cancer-causing potential. The isoflavones work not only by occupying estrogen receptors, but also by other unrelated mechanisms. | | A number of studies in humans, animals, and cell culture systems suggest that dietary phytoestrogens play an important role in the prevention of menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, cancer, and heart disease. |
Joe Graedon, M.S. and Teresa Graedon, Ph.D.
See book keywords and concepts |  Isoflavones such as genistein and daidzein are phytoestrogens, estrogen-like compounds derived from plants.
The results of studies on soy have been inconsistent. Soy may be consumed as shakes, bars, or more traditional soy foods such as tofu or tempeh. Women who have more hot flashes may derive more benefit. |
Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
See book keywords and concepts |  Soy is rich in phytoestrogens, which may, to some extent, substitute for your body's own estrogen if it is manufacturing too little. The latter effect is very important for osteoporosis. Estrogen depletion is strongly associated with osteoporosis.
Q Avoid phosphate-containing drinks and foods such as soft drinks and alcohol. Avoid smoking, sugar, and salt. Limit your consumption of citrus fruits and tomatoes; these foods may inhibit calcium intake.
01 Avoid yeast products. Yeast is high in phosphorus, which competes with calcium for absorption by the body. | | Eat foods that are high in phytoestrogens such as soy products, flaxseeds, nuts, whole grains, apples, fennel, celery, parsley, and alfalfa.
Q Do not consume alcohol or sugar in any form, especially during the week before symptoms are expected. These foods cause valuable electrolytes, particularly magnesium, to be lost through the urine.
Q Fast on fresh juices and spirulina for several days before the anticipated onset of menstruation to help minimize symptoms. (See fasting in Part Three.)
Q| Get regular exercise. Walking, even if only one-half to one mile per day, can be very helpful. | | A high intake of phytoestrogens is thought to explain why hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms rarely occur among women in Asian cultures.
Q Do not consume any animal products except for those recommended in this section. Avoid dairy products—limit your consumption to small amounts of low-fat yogurt or buttermilk. Dairy products and meat promote hot flashes.
Q Avoid alcohol, caffeine, sugar, spicy foods, and hot soups and drinks; they can trigger hot flashes, aggravate urinary incontinence, and make mood swings worse. | | Phytoestrogens also expand the length of the menstrual cycle, possibly lowering the lifetime exposure to estrogen.
Q Burdock root, dandelion root, milk thistle, and red clover all protect the liver and aid in cleansing the bloodstream.
Q Chaste tree berry (also known as vitex), ginseng, and soy extracts may inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells.
Q Curcumin (the yellow pigment found in turmeric) is the chief ingredient of curry. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory and protects against inflammatory calcium loss from our bones. | | These are useful in keeping correct blood fat levels and are rich in phytoestrogens.
9. Spices and herbs. Fat is better digested with the help of the antioxidants and phytochemicals available in many herbs.
10. Wheat germ and flax meal. These are good for boosting your intake of fiber, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Q Add raw nuts (except peanuts), olive oil, pink salmon, trout, tuna, Atlantic herring, and mackerel to your diet. These foods contain essential omega-3 fatty acids.
Q Do not consume stimulants, such as coffee and black tea, that contain caffeine. |
Dianne Onstad
See book keywords and concepts |  Soybeans, like peas and other legumes, are rich in isoflavones, also known as phytoestrogens (plant estrogens). These isoflavones actually bind to estrogen receptors and thus prevent the binding of the body's own estrogen to the receptor. phytoestrogens are currently under study, and there is controversy over whether they are beneficial or not.
Health Precautions
Soybeans, if consumed in high quantities, can block protein absorption. |
Joseph E. Mario
See book keywords and concepts |  Enterolactone Lignin inhibits Estrogenic enzymes in fatty tissues, protecting against cancers of the breast, prostate, and colon by spurring Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) in the liver; with similar structure to diethylstilbestrol, isoflavonoid phytoestrogens, and tamoxifen. Lignins have anti-estrogenic, antimititic, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Lignins lower ATPase in membranes and cell-proliferators ornithine decarboxylase, tyrosine protein kinase, and DNA topoisomerases reducingneuroblastomasand(pediatric)tumors. |
Bradley J. Willcox, M.D., D. Craig Willcox, Ph.D., Makoto Suzuki, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts | | It's rich in phytoestrogens and can be eaten as is, warmed in hot soup, stir-fried, baked, or broiled.
Extra-Firm Tofu: This is the hardest kind of tofu to find—except in Okinawa. It has an even beanier taste and a meaty texture. It's a perfect meat substitute and is great for vegetable stir-fries. This type of tofu is the richest in phytoestrogens.
Silken but Firm Tofu: This admittedly confusing category of tofu was made up by several North American tofu makers. It's smooth like regular silken tofu, but it is less fragile—more like a jelly with extra gelatin. |
Russell L. Blaylock, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts | | Soy is not only high in glutamate, it is also a source of phytoestrogens. The effect of this combination on the developing hypothalamus is anyone's guess.
A fairly recent series of studies found that infant animals treated with MSG have higher cortisone levels than normal mice, and following stress it takes longer for the high levels to normalize.255 This same process occurs in the elderly, and is known to endanger the brain. High levels of cortisone, especially over a long period of time, can destroy neurons in the hippocampus, a part of the brain damaged in Alzheimer's disease. | | Early studies indicated that isoflavones, a family of phytoestrogens found chiefly in soybeans, could reduce bone loss in cases of osteoporosis, but of some concern was a report of abnormalities in white blood cell function in some people taking the supplement. One of these products, a soy extract called ipriflavone, was shown to reduce significantly a biochemical marker for bone loss.432 I am opposed to soy products in general because of concerns about high glutamate levels and other adverse effects including increased risk of breast cancer. |
James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, N.D.
See book keywords and concepts |  Soy products and flaxseeds are good sources of phytoestrogens, substances that regulate the body's estrogen production.
Vitamin K will encourage proper blood clotting and may reduce an excessive flow of menstrual blood. Green vegetables are high in this nutrient.
Include sea vegetables like kelp (Ascophyllum nodosum) in your diet. These foods are high in iodine, a mineral that's necessary for a healthy thyroid.
If you have heavy or prolonged periods, you need extra iron to ward off anemia. Take a spoonful of unsulfured blackstrap molasses every day. For more suggestions, see Anemia. | | Japanese women have significantly fewer problems during menopause, thanks to their consumption of soybeans, tofu, miso, and flaxseeds, all of which are excellent sources of phytoestrogens. Add these to your diet, unless you have a soy allergy.
Essential fatty acids protect the heart and promote smooth, radiant skin. Good sources are cold-water fish like salmon, cod, and tuna, as well as flaxseeds.
Vitamin E regulates estrogen production. Make sure to include cold-pressed nut and seed oils in your diet, perhaps as a dressing for a green salad. |
Bradley J. Willcox, M.D., D. Craig Willcox, Ph.D., Makoto Suzuki, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts | | Soy is packed with plant compounds called phytoestrogens that are powerful antioxidants known for their heart-healthy and cancer-busting effects. phytoestrogens (such as isoflavones from soy and lignans from flax) also have a positive effect on cholesterol concentration and blood clots, and they even make the blood vessels less stiff.18 The tofu in Okinawa is lower in water content than Japanese tofu and higher in healthy fat and protein. |
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