Isoflavones
What Are Isoflavones?
Isoflavones are substances derived from plant-based foods. They are a form of phytoestrogen, which means that in the human body they have estrogen-like qualities. Though their effects are less powerful than the estrogen hormone, they still have protective functions. This is why isoflavones can help to balance hormones and support healthy menopause.
Dietary sources of isoflavones include soy products and legume seeds[1]. Soybeans have the highest concentration. You can also obtain isoflavones from a daily dietary supplement. Once eaten, isoflavones are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.
Isoflavones Benefits and Uses
Isoflavones have a number of health benefits, particularly for women. This is because they can improve the symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, breast tenderness, night sweats, irritability, and mood swings[2]. The effectiveness of isoflavones is thought to be due to their similarity to the female hormone estrogen. Isoflavones may also support healthy bones and joints[3] and healthy blood sugar levels[4]. The recommended daily intake of isoflavones is 40 to 50 mg per day.
Isoflavones Side Effects
Isoflavones are generally considered safe to use, though soy isoflavones and other phytoestrogens may cause the following unwanted effects:
- Bloating
- Cramping
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Skin rash
Though it is considered safe to intake the small amounts of isoflavones found in food while pregnant or breastfeeding, a supplement is not recommended at these times. You should not take soy isoflavones if you suffer from cystic fibrosis, as this may affect protein metabolism.
You should avoid isoflavones if you are currently suffering from, or have a medical history of breast cancer or endometrial cancer. Some types of these cancer are sensitive to estrogen and even estrogen like-compounds like phytoestrogens.
There is some concern that soy isoflavones may increase the risk of kidney stones in some people[5]. Soy isoflavones may also worsen hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)[6].
Fermented soy products, such as soy sauce and tofu, contain small amounts of tyramine, an amino acid that plays a role in regulating blood pressure. Some antidepressants, like monamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs, decrease the breakdown of tyramine; therefore, consuming more than 6 mg of tyramine while taking this type of antidepressant may result in elevated blood pressure[7].
Isoflavones Overdose
There are currently no reports of overdose from isoflavones. If you think you have taken too much of this supplement and you are experiencing unpleasant effects, stop taking it straight away and seek medical advice.
Buy Isoflavones
If you are suffering from menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and loss of libido, taking a supplement containing a balanced combination of isoflavones and phytoestrogens can help. Women’s health is a priority for DrFormulas™. With this in mind, DrForumulas™ Menopause Support Supplement is made with a patented formula designed to support healthy perimenopause and menopause. It includes a number of phytoestrogenic ingredients, including soy isoflavones, red clover, wild yam, false unicorn, blessed thistle, dong quai, black cohosh, and licorice.
Don’t suffer the discomfort of menopause symptoms in silence. Ease your way through menopause with DrFormulas™ Mendapause Menopause Relief Supplement. It’s convenient to take; just two capsules each day will make a difference.
For more information on DrFormulas™ products and how our supplements can assist you with your health goals, visit our product page. You can also explore our blog to discover how other ingredients can benefit your overall health.
[1]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4520332/
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/diet
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4924202/
[4] https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-975-soy.aspx?activeingredientid=975
[5] https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-975-soy.aspx?activeingredientid=975
[6] https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-975-soy.aspx?activeingredientid=975