Preparations and products containing phytoestrogens: a list, benefit and harm

In plant biochemistry, phytoestrogens are defined as a heterogeneous group of heterocyclic polyphenol compounds of plant origin that can exert an effect on the body and effects similar to those characteristic of endogenous female sex hormones: estradiol, estriol and estrone.

The benefits and harm of phytoestrogens

Phytoestrogens are widely considered a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy, and dietary supplements with phytoestrogens are taken without regard.

However, the issue of the relationship between the potential benefits and the harm of these natural polyphenols for human health remains at the center of scientific discussions and is the subject of numerous studies.

And the answer, most likely, can depend on the age, health status and even the presence or absence of specific components of the intestinal microflora (since the absorption and metabolism of lignans depends on the activity of intestinal bacteria).

To date, soy isoflavones and red clover are best studied, which, in addition to hormone-like action, have a powerful antioxidant effect on the body.

There is some evidence that the benefits of phytoestrogens is that they are capable of:

• to alleviate such symptoms of menopause as menopausal hot flushes, vaginal atrophy, decreased cognitive functions;
• prevent or significantly slow down the development of osteoporosis, fraught with increased brittleness of bones;
• lower LDL cholesterol in the blood;
• to provide neuroprotective action in the development of dementia in postmenopausal women;
• reduce the risk of breast cancer in women over the age of 50-55 years on the background of a deficiency of endogenous sex hormones;
• reduce the likelihood of endometrial cancer in women;
• reduce the threat of cardiovascular disease;
• stop the progression of atherosclerosis.

On the other hand, the negative effects of phytoestrogens, in particular, violations in the area of female reproductive functions, also did not go unheeded.

It is believed that the harm of phytoestrogens can consist of:

• in the negative consequences for the fertility of young women;
• in the development of ovarian pathologies, in particular, their polycystosis;
• in the stimulation of isoflavones and lignans the formation of malignant tumors of the mammary gland;
• in the aggravation of cognitive disorders in women during the postmenopausal period, especially in the face of problems with the thyroid gland.

Also, the potential harm of phytoestrogens is seen in the fact that many of them contain salts of phytic acid (phytates) that bind zinc ingested with food and reduce its absorption in the body. This factor can negatively affect the functions of the digestive tract and kidneys, worsen the condition of bone tissues, muscles and dermis, reduce overall immunity.

Some of the soybean phytoestrogens block the enzymes necessary to break down the protein food into essential amino acids. And genistein inhibits the glucose-transferring enzyme GLUT-1, which can reduce the absorption of not only glucose, but also ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which, as is known, is not synthesized in the body.

As several studies in vitro have shown, phytoestrogen couestrol (at certain amounts) exhibits genotoxicity and is able to induce the formation of lymphoblastoid cells.

Isoflavones penetrate the placental barrier. Experiments on animals have demonstrated a number of epigenetic modifications of the organs of the reproductive system that arose under the influence of these phytoestrogens during intrauterine development.

A partial confirmation of this is the report of the Journal of Pediatrics that a trend towards testicular atrophy (a reduction in the testicles) was found in the survey of male infants fed on soy milk based on artificial feeding.

As you can see, the contradictions in assessing the benefits and harm of phytoestrogens are obvious. Therefore, further comprehensive study of these substances is necessary, and it is too early to draw final conclusions.

Natural phytoestrogens

It has been established that phytoestrogens have a structural generality with the main female sex hormone, 17-β-estradiol, which is a steroid by chemical nature and has practically all the properties of phenols.

For today, the main natural phytoestrogens are isolated, united into several groups.

Couestans (coumarinic derivatives), in particular, couestrol, which belongs to the class of cyclic esters of carboxylic acids (lactones). Kumestrol is found in clover, alfalfa, soybean and conventional beans, most cruciferous crops.

Isoflavones: genistein, daidzein, ekvol (metabolite of daidzein), biochanin A, formononetinin (biokhanin B), glycitein, prunetin, irigenin. Contained in the same beans of soybeans, clover, alfalfa sprouts, sophora, in the rhizome of the tiger lily, some species of iris, etc.

Lignans - metairezinol, secoisolariciresinol, hydroxymetarezinol, syringarezinol, sesamin - are derivatives of phenylalanine and are part of the walls of plant cells. Thus, secoisolariciresinol (in the form of diglucoside) is found in seeds of flax, sesame, sunflower and pumpkin. Entering the body, under the influence of colonic bacteria, the lignans are transformed into active metabolites-enterolignanes-entero-diol and enterolactone.

And in the stilbene group, the polyphenol compound resveratrol and its derivatives are isolated.

As Nutritional Biochemistry reports, a certain biochemical effect on estrogen receptors (direct or indirect) has been observed in phytosterols and steroid alcohols (β-sitosterol, stigmasterol and campesterol); steroidal glycoside diosgenin, flavon glycoside apigenin, and flavone luteolin.

Scientists consider as natural phytoestrogens ellagic acid, some phytoalexins, flavonoids catechin, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, epigallocatechin (most of them in the leaves of unfermented tea, ie, green). Procyanidin dimers (contained in grapes of dark varieties) can be regarded as phytoestrogens.

Indications of the phytoestrogens

The main indications for the use of various forms of phytoestrogenic agents include, first of all, the vegetative symptoms of the onset of menopause (hot flashes, etc.).

Phytoestrogens can also be used as an additional therapeutic agent in the complex treatment of a wide range of diseases of the reproductive system organs of women (uterus, ovaries, mammary glands) associated with imbalance of the main gonadotropic sex hormones.

It is possible to use pharmacological preparations based on phytoestrogens in endometriosis, endometrial hyperplasia and fibroids, fibroadenomatous breast pathologies and mastopathy, as well as in malignant tumors of the breast, ovaries, and prostate (in men).

[1], [2], [3]

Pharmacodynamics

It should be clearly understood that phytoestrogens can not become a substitute for estrogen in the body, since their therapeutic effect, that is, pharmacodynamics, is based on the similarity of their chemical structure with estrogens - due to the presence of a phenolic ring and hydroxyl groups. That is why they can partially reproduce the biological activity of endogenous hormones. And due to the low molecular weight and stable structure, these organic substances penetrate through the cell membranes and interact with enzymes and cell receptors.

The action of phytoestrogens is carried out in several ways: they are able either to work as an estrogen, or to block and inhibit its physiological effects. First of all, these substances bind to the estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ on the membranes of the cell nuclei. In this case, ERα transduce signals at the level of the female sex and mammary glands, and ERβ - on the endometrial cells of the uterus, the vascular endothelium, bone tissue, and in men - on the prostate tissue.

The association with receptors in phytoestrogens is much weaker than in endogenous ones, and depends on the level of production of 17-β-estradiol. Moreover, depending on the sensitivity of the receptors in various tissues, isoflavones and cumestrole can behave selectively.

In addition, the chemical structure of some phytoestrogens allows them to partially deactivate aromatase enzymes (CYP1A1 / 2), tyrosine kinases and methyltransferases; change the susceptibility of the 3-β-HSD and 17β-HSD receptor-providing estrogen receptors, the G-protein estrogen receptor GPER1 (responsible for activating the proliferation of breast tissue cells with estradiol), etc. For example, suppress the activity of aromatase, the expression of which increases significantly in cancer-affected mammary tissue, phytoestrogens genistein and apigenin. Inhibit the activity of HSD-receptors are capable of isoflavones genistein and daidzein; for couestrol, only the 3-β-HSD receptor is characteristic, and for apigenin, only 17β-HSD.

The principle of the action of some phytoestrogens, (for example, which are part of the Voronets fusiform) is associated with the effect on the receptors of neurotransmitter hormones and the influence on the pituitary-hypothalamic structures of the brain.

Thus, the complex and completely unexplored mechanism of the action of phytoestrogens can affect the entire process of hormone metabolism.

But lignans (in the accessible form of entero-diol and enterolactone) exhibit the properties of antioxidants, but their estrogenic activity is negligible, since they do not interact with ERα and ERβ. However, influencing the activity of various enzymes involved in the metabolism of estrogens, lignans are able to change the biological effect of endogenous sex hormones.

Since many other chemical compounds are present in the herbs containing phytoestrogens, it is likely that some of their well-known physiological actions are mediated through other biochemical mechanisms.

Phytoestrogens: effects on men

Since estrogen is important not only for women, one should know what is the effect of phytoestrogens on men.

Judging the benefits of these compounds on the body of men is difficult, because serious research on this issue is very limited, although men have much less estrogen receptors.

The positive effect on men of soybean phytoestrogens is a discharge of excess weight and the prospect of avoiding the development of diabetes. But experts say that excretion of excess estrogen from the male body reduces the functional usefulness of the enzymatic system of hepatic cytochrome P450. And those who, often consumes alcohol and at the same time has extra pounds, phytoestrogens can seriously disrupt the liver.

In addition, because of the large number of phytoestrogens (usually soy and licorice), fertility can decrease - by reducing the synthesis of testosterone and suppressing the production of sperm. On the other hand: the less testosterone, the less it is transformed into dihydrotestosterone, and the more hair will remain on the head ...

At the same time, concentrated dietary supplements with phytoestrogens can not only threaten the development of oncology, but also conceal the danger of erectile dysfunction, as well as the development of metaplasia of the prostate and bulbourethral glands.

According to doctors, excessive and prolonged consumption of phytoestrogens by men is unacceptable.

[4], [5], [6], [7], [8], [9]

Dosing and administration

The method of application and dose of phytopreparations are indicated on the packages (in the enclosed instructions) and corrected by the attending physician. But the duration of their admission should be limited.

Phytoestrogens in mastopathy

Physicians came to the conclusion that some phytoestrogens in mastopathy - glandular, fibrous or cystic dysplasia of the mammary glands - are able to produce a certain therapeutic effect.

The often prescribed homeopathic remedy Mastodinon (analogue - Cyclodinon) includes extracts of plants such as common squirrel, which reduces the production of the hormone prolactin due to the action of its constituent iridoids and flavonoids on the pituitary dopamine receptors. This leads to a normalization of the synthesis of gonadotropin-releasing hormone in the pituitary gland, and a decrease in prolactin has a beneficial effect on mammary gland tissue. Also in the preparation there are extracts of a stalker, an iris of a multi-colored, tiger lily, etc. Mastodinone in the form of a tincture should be taken for at least three months - twice a day for 25-30 drops.

In addition, phytotherapists recommend to patients a tincture of the peony of the milky flower (Paeonia lactiflora) containing stilbenes (trans-resveratrol).

More information about this pathology in the publication - Fibro-cystic mastopathy

[22], [23], [24], [25], [26], [27], [28]

Phytoestrogens in breast cancer

The increased activity of aromatase and the dominance of estrogen are among the most common factors associated with breast, uterine and ovarian cancer in women.

Therefore phytoestrogens in breast cancer should block the ERα receptor or aromatase receptors, since it is a hormonally sensitive disease and can have two variants: ER (+) or ER (-). The most important factor is the level of endogenous estrogen in the patient.

The results of studies of the use of phytoestrogens in a malignant breast tumor are quite contradictory and not always convincing. However, flax seed lignans in postmenopausal women can reduce the level of estradiol due to its displacement by less active estriol and estrone. It is believed that this will potentially reduce the risk of breast cancer, and there is evidence that regularly consumed flax seeds (two tablespoons per day) inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the breast tissue.

But the phytoestrogens of the isoflavone group act on estrogen receptors, and, as noted earlier, the action is selective: at a high level of 17-β-estradiol in the blood, isoflavones and coumestrol must block ERα receptors in the tissues of the mammary glands, and at low-activate.

According to in vitro studies, phytoestrogens of licorice root, soybeans and red clover grass, as well as phytoestrogens in hops stimulate the proliferation of ER (+) breast cancer cells. That is, tea with phytoestrogens of these plants in this case is absolutely contraindicated.

A klopogon (Voronets) racemose, that is, contained in it phytoestrogen formononetin, is able to accelerate the metastasis of breast cancer at an early stage (data of the AACR - the American Association for Research on Cancer). Many researchers believe that phytoestrogens in breast cancer can be used, but it is safe to do only after menopause, when the level of estrogen falls, or should simultaneously use anti-estrogenic drugs.

For this reason, the approach to the use of drugs or herbs containing phytoestrogens should be determined only by the doctor, based on the results of the survey.

Phytoestrogens in endometriosis

Most often, phytoestrogens are used in endometriosis, which are contained in a red brush, the root of a Chinese angel, a white pion, and a camomile chamomile.

The root of burdock (burdock large) is not included in the number of plants with estrogen-like action, but its use by gynecologists is explained by the fact that it helps to balance the level of hormones, supporting and stabilizing the work of the liver, in which the splitting of the spent hormones occurs to eliminate their metabolites. With poor liver function, an excess of estrogen is formed, which was not biotransformed in time and was not removed from the blood and from the body.

In endometriosis, the burdock root is often recommended - in combination phytoestrogens, but the specificity of this pathology is such that treatment requires maximum suppression of ovarian function. And without pharmacological hormonal drugs to achieve this is difficult.

More information in the article - Endometriosis

Phytoestrogens with uterine myomas

Like most gynecological diseases, uterine myoma reacts to hormones: it stimulates its growth of estradiol and progesterone, and reduces - progestins and aromatase inhibitors.

Phytoestrogens in uterine myomas should protect ERβ receptors from gonad-derived estradiol or block the activity of the aromatase enzyme. To do this, flavonoids and isoflavones of such herbs are used as the boron uterus, the root of the clopogon (tsimicifugi) and the prutnika.

Genistein soy and all legume family plants, as well as flax seed lignans, are recommended to reduce aromatase activity. In addition, according to the latest research, phytoestrogens genistein, daidzein, biokhanin A, apigenin and quercetin in a dose-dependent manner suppress the expression of the matrix aromatase RNA. Especially strong in this regard is apigenin, so that tea with phytoestrogens of chamomile can be useful for myoma of the uterus. It is also useful to combine microelements (calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorus) and vitamins with phytoestrogens - A, B, C and E.

Herbalists advise to take Echinacea to reduce inflammation, to relieve spasms and pains - motherwort, and to improve metabolism - dandelion and milk thistle.

And patients should remember that with myoma of the uterus, the action of phytoestrogens often has an unpredictable option.

Phytoestrogens to increase bust

If a woman wants to increase the size of her breasts "in a natural way," phytoestrogens can help to increase the bust - isoflavones and lignans, which will stimulate the hormones produced by the body. These are completely natural phytoestrogens - 8-prenylnaringenin, diosgenia, formononetin, liquiditetigenin. First, doses should be minimal with a gradual increase to an average dose (if there are positive results). The process is long, and, as experts say, it all depends on the individual characteristics of the organism.

However, one should not forget that at least 50% of cases of breast cancer are estrogen-dependent.

Phytoestrogens for weight loss

The substances considered in the article, indeed, are capable of much and behave in the most unexpected way. On the one hand, women who use certain dietary supplements with phytoestrogens, often gain extra pounds. On the other hand, flaxseed lignans and soybean genistein, red clover or licorice root can be used as phytoestrogens for weight loss.

Studies conducted in the early 2000s revealed a definite effect on genistein phytoestrogen obesity, and although the mechanism of its action is not completely clear, it is suggested that this isoflavone can reduce the adipogenesis rate of white adipose tissue. Genistein interferes with the synthesis of adipocytes (fat cells), stimulating their apoptosis, which is associated with the activation of protein kinase under the influence of the antioxidant properties of phytoestrogens. Genistein also inhibits the accumulation of glucose in adipocytes (fat cells) under the action of the glucuron transport membrane glucose GLUT4.

Soy products can help in weight reduction with obesity. According to the results of a 2015 study conducted in rats, soybean-eating rodents were thinner than those who received normal food. But it is important to note that animal studies do not always lead to adequate results in humans.

So the connection between phytoestrogens and weight loss is still not established. And if a woman has hormone-dependent gynecological diseases, it is important to limit the potentially dangerous products to the maximum. What kind? More in detail - in the section Phytoestrogens in products.

Phytoestrogens for hair

It has been established that in sebocytes (sebaceous glands) of the scalp and hair follicles - regardless of sex - more ERβ receptor estrogen. Since the development of endogenous estrogens and progesterone decreases with age, the hair in women becomes more sensitive to androgen. Synthetic estrogens to prevent hair loss can exacerbate the problem, so it is logical, as a natural alternative, to use phytoestrogens for hair.

The most recent randomized trials of British trichologists have shown a positive effect of soy isoflavones on hair condition in 85% of postmenopausal women. In addition, isoflavones protect against osteoporosis by conserving bone mineral density in women of this category.

Moreover, studies show that phytoestrogens can stimulate the growth of new hair by prolonging the second phase of the stage of this process - catagen.

Phytoestrogens from acne

A sufficient level of 17-β-estradiol is a necessary condition for healthy skin without acne and acne (blackheads). When substances that mimic the action of estrogens come into the body and their level is excessive, the physiological ratio of estrogens and androgens in the female body is disrupted.

Experts came to the conclusion that with a diet rich in phytoestrogens, the level of endogenous estrogen can fall by a third, which leads to acne and acne - a proof of hormonal imbalance. Increases the level of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which stimulates the production of sebum. And the formation of DHT comes from less active testosterone due to the catalyst - the enzyme 5α-reductase. So, using isoflavone phytoestrogens from acne, you can reduce the activity of this enzyme, after which DHT will cease to stimulate sebaceous glands of the skin.

The ability to inhibit 5α-reductase is inherent in many polyphenol compounds of plant origin, including catechins of green tea leaves.

Cosmetics with phytoestrogens

Studies of the effect of estrogens of the dermis are few, nevertheless, their result was the determination of the presence of both isoforms of the estrogen receptor (ERα and ERβ) and a higher level of expression of ERβ receptors in the epidermis, blood vessels and dermal fibroblasts. So cosmetics with phytoestrogens for skin care, applied topically, can be useful, because micromolecules of these substances are easily absorbed by the upper layers of the epidermis.

According to dermatologists, a quality cream with phytoestrogens (for example, with a soy-based emulsion) promotes the activation of the skin receptors of estrogen, which leads to an improvement in the state of fibroblasts and keratinocytes, an increase in the density of the intercellular matrix and a decrease in flabbiness of the skin.

Phytoestrogens, especially soybean, red clover and seedlings of cereals, have a calming effect on the skin and counterbalance the production of sebum.

Now many anti-aging creams contain vitamins with phytoestrogens, which increases their antioxidant and regenerating effectiveness.

A cream with phytoestrogens of clover, seeds and nuts (in particular isoflavone genistein) can become a protection against sun-induced photoaging of face and neck skin.

Phytoestrogens are tyrosinase inhibitors and suppress skin pigment melanin, so cosmetics with phytoestrogens help lighten the skin and reduce age-related pigment spots.

[29], [30], [31]

Phytoestrogens for women after 40 years

Some doctors recommend phytoestrogens for women after 40 years - during perimenopause, to counteract the vasomotor manifestations of decreased ovarian functions and a reduction in the production of sex hormones and to prevent a serious hormonal imbalance.

In such cases, preparations based on phytoestrogens can be prescribed for the normalization of the hormonal background: Climadinone, Climacoplane or Tsi-Klim (with tsimicifugi extract), Lefem (with soy isoflavones), Estrovel (with soya extracts, dioscorei and tsimitsifugi), Tribestan anchorites creeping).

Food supplements with phytoestrogens of red clover are also used: Innothera Chouzy, France, Feminal (JGL, Croatia), Femiwell menopause (Evalar, Russia), Menoflavone (Maxmedica, Bulgaria), and others. Mastoclin (Vertex , Ukraine) there are extracts of flowers of calendula, walnut leaves, chaga; roots of a red brush, licorice, wild yam and peony.

Contraindications

Contraindications for use - the presence of cancer, liver dysfunction, pregnancy and lactation.

[10], [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], [16], [17],

Side effects of the phytoestrogens

Side effects that phytoestrogens can exert in hot flashes are expressed as headaches, nausea, intestinal disorders, a decrease in the activity of liver enzymes, and with the use of drugs with tsimitsifugoy possible development of endometrial hyperplasia and the formation of seals in the parenchyma of the mammary glands. These compounds can potentially contribute to the formation of thrombi or worsen some forms of cancer.

[18], [19], [20], [21]

Overdose

Overdose of these drugs can cause nausea, vomiting, bradycardia, impaired vision.

It should also be remembered that the symptoms of such hormonal changes as menopause can be corrected, but it is impossible to completely avoid them.

Read detailed articles on this topic - How to increase the level of estrogens and herbs from hot flushes with menopause

[32], [33],

Herbs containing phytoestrogens

Medicinal plants and herbs containing phytoestrogens have been actively studied by biochemists, pharmacologists and medics throughout the world for the last decades. To phytoestrogens carry different plants, and their estrogenic activity is due to various substances.

Grass with phytoestrogens - licorice naked (Glycyrrhiza glabra), the root of which is known as licorice, contains isoflavones genistein and formononetin, as well as glabrin and glabridine, liquiditetgenin and beta-sitosterol. This plant can support the balance of hormones, help the endocrine system and improve liver function in women.

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) and alfalfa (both plants of the legume family) contain the entire spectrum of isoflavone phytoestrogens and beta-sitosterol. The above-ground parts of the clover are used for vaginal dryness and for the normalization of blood circulation in the pelvic organs. Similar composition and effect have Japanese and Sophora yellowing.

Phytoestrogen in hops (Humulus lurulus) is found in its female inflorescences (cones), and these are prenyl flavonoids (8-prenylnaringenin, xanthohumol, isoxanthohumol) that bind to 17-β-estradiol receptors. Indications for the use of this plant include breast, ovarian or prostate cancer, as well as insomnia, increased excitability, high cholesterol, intestinal spasms, etc.

The aerial parts and seeds of Tribulus terrestris help maintain a healthy level of estrogen in women - thanks to the steroid saponin diosgenin. When used during the follicular phase of the cycle, ovulation normalizes with anovulatory infertility. Among the active substances of this plant, steroid saponins (protodioscin, etc.) are also found that increase the secretion of endogenous hormones - estriol, FSH and testosterone. This makes it possible to use anchors as a medicine for sexual dysfunction.

Grass of sage, yarrow, calendula (flowers) contain beta-sitosterol. And the seeds of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum), in addition to beta-sitosterol, have in their composition trigonellin, diosgenin and c-steroid sapogenin. Due to diogenin, the linten plant Clintonia borealis and Dioscorea villosa or wild yam have been included in the number of phytoestrogens, which help with menstrual disturbances. Phytotherapists assert that high concentrations of steroid saponins ensure the supply of the initial substances for the synthesis of sex hormones in the presence of hormonal imbalance.

Used in traditional Chinese medicine, the root of the angelica (Radix Angelica sinensis), presumably, acts due to liquiditetigenin and phytosterols; it is recommended for vasomotor symptoms of menopause - as phytoestrogens in hot flashes.

Also, the roots and rhizomes of perennial grass are used by the crow of the ravenous or clover, more commonly known as cimisifuge, which contain isoflavone formononetin and triterpene glycosides.

The orbital uterus (Orthilia secunda) contains flavonoids, saponins, phenolic glycoside arbutin (with strong antiseptic action), gums, proanthocyanidins. Indications for use: fibroids and uterine myoma, uterine bleeding, menstrual disorders, cervical erosion, bladder inflammation.

Chamomile pharmacy (flowers) has among its components flavones of luteolin and apigenin, the latter suppresses the aromatase enzyme and weakly binds to ERβ. Prutnyak ordinary (Agnus Castus), also known as the vitex sacred, also contains apigenin. A fragrant (Origanum vulgare) contains in leaves and inflorescences luteolin, quercetin, β-sitosterol. Its main drug use in gynecology is associated with the stimulation of the uterine muscles in amenorrhea.

Resveratrol weakly stimulates estrogen receptors; this substance is found in the roots of the plant, the Japanese mountaineer (Polygonum cuspidatum) or raynaea (Fallopia japonica), as well as in the peel and bones of dark grapes.

The red brush (Rhodiola quadrifida) contains chlorogenic acid, arabinose, as well as phenolic compounds (rojoctanoside, rosiridine, salidroside) and flavonoids. As experiments have shown, this variety of rhodiola increases the humoral immunity and adaptive capabilities of the body, relieves inflammation and normalizes the endocrine system in women. However, this plant is not officially included in the number of phytoestrogens. Nevertheless, domestic gynecologists recommend drugs with a red brush for inflammation and fibrotic changes in the mucous uterus, cyst and polycystosis of the ovaries, with mastopathy and heavily leaking menopause.

Independently - without determining the level of 17-β-estradiol in the body and consulting with a gynecologist - use herbs containing phytoestrogens, take dietary supplements with phytoestrogens or drink tea with phytoestrogens is not worth it. Why? This is discussed in more detail in the section Use and Harm of Phytoestrogens.

Soybean and flax seeds as a source of phytoestrogens

It is generally accepted that the best phytoestrogens, that is, the most effective, are soybean and flax seeds. Phytoestrogens, which are abundantly present in flaxseed and soybeans, shift the metabolism of endogenous estradiol in favor of less active estriol and estrone, thereby affecting chronic diseases.

Soya (Glycine max) in its beans contains coumestrol, genistein, daidzein, biokhanin A and B, β-sitosterol. And their concentration - today is the highest in the realm of the flora.

Spores around soybeans have been going on for decades. In part, the fact is that, unregistered taking dietary supplements with soy phytoestrogens (very popular in the West), women began to turn to doctors with health problems more often. And it is not accidental.

The hormonal system is the most complex physiological and biochemical mechanism, and if something is disturbed in it, the functioning of the entire system suffers. Taking advertised capsules with soybean phytoestrogens without consulting a doctor, it is quite realistic to receive a response in the form of an imbalance of hormones. Women may have a menstrual cycle or have problems with their breasts and ovaries, since soy isoflavones modulate the activity of the enzyme 17b-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which ensures the equilibrium of estradiol and estrone.

Experts who hold lignan seeds (Linum usitatissimum) consider the second strongest group of phytoestrogens. Studies have shown that the combination of lignans and fiber in flaxseed helps to remove excess estrogen from the body, that is, reduce hyperestrogenism - the main cause of many gynecological problems and diseases. And also protect the body from the so-called xenoestrogens: growth hormones (used in livestock and poultry), insecticides or pesticides (used in agriculture), phthalate compounds of plastic, parabens and phenoxyethanol detergents, etc.

After ingestion, lignans of flax seeds are converted into metabolites with an anti-estrogenic effect, that is, they can be useful for breast cancer.

Flax seeds and lignans are safe for most adults, although animal studies give grounds for imposing a strict restriction on their use during pregnancy.

Phytoestrogens in linseed oil are absent, but there is one of the main omega-3 fatty acids - alpha-linolenic, and also linoleic and oleic fatty acids.

Phytoestrogens in foods

It should immediately be noted that phytoestrogens are contained in products of plant origin. And, according to the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, there are almost three hundred products with the content of certain phytoestrogens. We list some of them:

• soybean and all soy products (other than those manufactured by sublimation);
• legumes of all kinds;
• walnuts, pistachios, edible chestnuts, oilseeds (sunflower, sesame, flax, amaranth, pumpkin seeds);
• anise, fennel (seeds), turmeric, tubby, oregano;
• olives (fresh);
• cereals (wheat, rye, oats, buckwheat, barley, millet, rice, corn) and seedlings of grains:
• rice bran;
• vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, carrots, celery, green peppers, garlic, onions, green onions, leaf parsley, rosemary);
• fruit and berries (citrus fruits, apples, pears, quince, apricots and dried apricots, peaches, plums, grapes, strawberries, cherries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, rosehips);
• alcoholic beverages (white and red grape wine, beer.

By the way, phytoestrogens in beer (9 mcg in 100 ml) are of a double type. Firstly, it is hops with its set of prenyl flavonoids, and, secondly, it is malt - sprouted barley grains, which are preliminarily soaked in water.

Oil containing phytoestrogens: olive (raw squeezing), from wheat germ, pomegranate seeds and seeds of the date palm. Linseed oil and soybean oil do not contain active phytoestrogens.