Soy is a grain rich in proteins, vitamins A and C, and various minerals. It is also known for being a great ally for those looking to lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol, and is also rich in isoflavones.
Isoflavones are a type of phytoestrogen, hormones found in plants, very similar to those found in the body1. They are natural organic compounds of plant origin present mainly in soy and its derivatives.
However, these same substances cause many doubts, especially for those trying to conceive. After all, do isoflavones help or hinder the success of pregnancy?
What are phytoestrogens?
Phytoestrogens are hormones derived from plants, similar to estrogen. They are also called “dietary estrogen” because, when consumed, they can cause effects similar to estrogenic hormones, that is, they act similarly to female hormones.
Structurally, phytoestrogens resemble the hormone found in the body, but their action is not the same. In fact, isoflavones don’t all work the same way. Some act as estrogen blockers, tricking the body into producing more of the hormone. Others are mistaken for estrogen by the body, which can worsen hormonal imbalances.
How do isoflavones work in the body?
The idea is that isoflavones can block the estrogen receptors in the brain, “tricking” it into thinking the body’s estrogen levels are low. This way, the body starts producing more estrogen, which can be helpful for those with irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea. That’s why isoflavones are also known as natural estrogens.
So, in theory, isoflavones should be used in a similar way to clomiphene, at the start of the cycle to stimulate egg maturation. When the effect of the isoflavone wears off, the body releases LH, triggering ovulation. The problem is that this is not necessarily the reality.
Can the use of isoflavones be bad for your health?
Medications are tested and controlled. Isoflavones, however, can be unpredictable. While some truly block estrogen receptors, others mimic the effect of this hormone. This can, as a consequence, worsen hormonal imbalances.
There is also evidence that high doses of isoflavones may fuel the growth of types of cancer that feed on estrogen2. They can also cause thyroid problems, leading to hypothyroidism. That’s why caution with isoflavone intake is necessary!
Who benefits from isoflavones?
Since the use of isoflavones is not as predictable as medication, some care is required regarding its usage. The women who can benefit most from isoflavones are those with mild hormonal imbalances, who have irregular cycles or amenorrhea not associated with any syndrome.
Additionally, isoflavones also help reduce symptoms of PMS, help prevent osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases, and even chronic diseases. They also help relieve symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and other effects of hormonal imbalance3.
This is because their chemical structure contains immunostimulant and antioxidant properties that help normalize estrogen levels in the body. In other words, isoflavones can be a good option for natural hormone replacement therapy.
Who should not take isoflavones?
Isoflavones should not be used by women with diagnosed hormonal syndromes, such as PCOS. Women with fibroids, endometriosis, thyroid problems, renal failure, liver disease, or fibrocystic breast diseases (such as breast cancer), and pregnant women should also avoid this substance.
And another caution: this hormone replacement with isoflavones should only be done by adults, meaning over 18 years old. That’s because, as it is a substance that interferes with estrogen production, misuse can affect sexual maturation.
It is also important to consider interactions with other medications. The use of isoflavones may interact with drugs such as antibiotics, antidepressants, clomiphene and other ovulation inducers, thyroid medications, and some painkillers.
How to use isoflavones?
One of the best ways to consume isoflavones is to eat soybeans themselves or products made from them, such as tofu or soy milk. The alternative is isoflavone supplements in capsule form.
Isoflavone capsules are easy to find at pharmacies, but the supplements should be of good origin to ensure that they actually provide the claimed amount of isoflavone. For a more noticeable effect, supplement use is recommended. Like other medications with similar effects, isoflavone should be used for short periods of time, at most for a few months.
The ideal is to use isoflavones the same way as clomiphene: from days 3 to 7 or 5 to 9 of the cycle, in the smallest possible dose if using a supplement.
What are the possible side effects?
The possible side effects include headache, gastrointestinal disturbances, fatigue, and breast tenderness. They usually last for a short period.
Research on the real effectiveness of isoflavones is conflicting, but for a woman with mild hormonal imbalances, it may be enough to solve the problem. If you are over 35 years old, you should think carefully about this option: from this age on, time is essential.
In any case, when using any type of supplement, even herbal ones, always seek medical advice and never buy medication without guidance! It’s also important to respect the expiration date on the packaging and check that the product won’t interact with other medications, which could cause more health problems.
