Endocrinology researchers at China’s Sichuan University analyzed data from a number of previous studies to assess the effects of regular soybean extract soy isoflavone intake on the prevention of osteoporosis in women. They found that women who took soybean extract supplements on a regular basis showed a 54 percent increase in bone mineral density. They also reported that regular isoflavone intake was associated with a significantly lower level of bone resorption, the process by which older bone is broken down and its constituent minerals transported back into the bloodstream. Results of their meta-analysis were published in the March 2012 issue of “Asia Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine.”
 

Soybean
 

Soybean Extract for Menopausal Symptoms:

Because of their chemical similarity to the female sex hormone estrogen, soy isoflavones provide an alternative for postmenopausal women who cannot tolerate conventional hormone replacement therapy for a variety of reasons. In a study of isoflavones’ effectiveness in treating menopausal symptoms, researchers at Italy’s University of Catania came up with mixed results. While the soy isoflavones produced a 40 percent reduction in vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flashes, and a lower incidence of insomnia and depression, they had little, if any, effect on menopause’s musculoskeletal pains and vaginal dryness. Results appeared in the February 2012 issue of “Minerva Ginecologica.”
 

Soy isoflavones belong to a class of plant-based compounds known as phytoestrogens, so-called because they are similar in chemical structure and function to the female sex hormone estrogen. Soy isoflavones occur naturally in soybeans and can be found in several soy-based foods such as miso, soy sauce, tofu, edamame, soy milk and soy butter. Researchers have found that these compounds have some medicinal properties, particularly for women, and continue to study soy isoflavones for other health benefits.
 

Related plant extract: milk thistle extract, green tea extract, yohimbe bark extract, green coffee bean extract