---

Soy isoflavones

Isoflavones are a unique class of phytoestrogens (plant hormones) that naturally occur in a variety of leguminous plants, including vegetable protein materials such as soybeans (Glycine max). The three isoflavones found in soybeans are genistin, daidzin, and glycitin. The genistein family includes the glucoside genistin; the conjugates 6"-OMal genistin (6"-malonate ester of genistin) and 6"-OAc genistin (6"-acetate ester of genistin); and the aglucone genistein. The daidzein family includes the glucoside daidzin; the conjugates 6"-OMal daidzin and 6"-OAc daidzin; and the aglucone daidzein. The glycitein family includes the glucoside glycitin; the conjugate 6"-OMal glycitin; and the aglucone glycitein. The isoflavones in soybean materials include isoflavone glucosides (glucones), isoflavone conjugates and aglucone isoflavones. Isoflavone glucosides have a glucose molecule attached to an isoflavone moiety. Isoflavone conjugates have additional moieties attached to the glucose molecule of an isoflavone glucoside. Soy isoflavones have a wide range of health benefits that include moderating normal symptoms associated with menopause and promoting bone and heart health. Soy isoflavones are potent anti-oxidants capable of reducing the amount of LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol) that undergoes modification in the body. For decades, nutritional studies have indicated that the inclusion of soy protein in the diet actually reduces serum cholesterol levels in people who are at risk. The higher the cholesterol, the more effective soy proteins are in lowering that level. Entry of the modified LDL-cholesterol into the walls of blood vessels contributes to the formation of plaques. These plaques cause the blood vessels to lose their ability to function normally. Research in both animals and humans shows that ingesting soy isoflavones can help maintain normal blood vessel function. It has been suggested that such isoflavones in soy products may have a potential role in the prevention of cancer. The isoflavone genistein may have some role as a chemopreventive agent against breast and prostate cancer in humans.

---