He suggests that animal endocrine systems evolved from signalling between organisms. His review offers examples of biochemical communication between alfalfa plants and root-nodule bacteria and between coral and algae. Science News . 11 Aug 01. Conflicting results over safety of soy formula Concerns still exist about the safety of soy milk for infants.
Soy contains phytoestrogens called isoflavones that can mimic estrogen.
While some believe soy infant formula is safe, others question the impact of large doses of phytoestrogens on developing babies. Results from two recent research studies add to the confusion. One finds that genistein, an isoflavone found in soy, produces reproductive cancers, while the other suggests fears about long-term health effects may be unwarranted. A main reason for concern is that babies fed soy formula eat large amounts of phytoestrogens during some of life's most critical and rapid growth phases. It is known that exposure to estrogen mimics during key periods of growth may influence and permanently change hormone-dependent development.