As an Alternative for Estrogen Replacement Therapy. As an Alternative for Estrogen Replacement Therapy. MINN Despite studies that indicate benefits of soy isoflavones, a report published by Mayo Clinic physicians in the November edition of Mayo Clinic Proceedings finds insufficient data to draw any definitive conclusions in the use of soy isoflavones as an alternative to estrogen for hormone replacement in postmenopausal women. Recent interest in natural products with specific health claims has increased interest in soy proteins and their potential estrogen-like effects.
Soybeans are a staple in the diet of East Asian countries.
The soy phytoestrogens, specifically isoflavones, have been postulated to be partly responsible for this protection. As a result, there has been intense interest in the isoflavones as substitutes for estrogen for postmenopausal women. Isoflavones have emerged as the most interesting class of phytoestrogens as they have potential estrogenic activity and an extensive range of biological actions. The authors of the Mayo Clinic report looked at various studies about isoflavones and the effects they have on coronary artery disease, breast cancer prevention, bone loss, the central nervous system, the endometrium, hormonal effects, attenuation of hot flashes and the skin. The authors concluded, The data we have thus far are insufficient, and it is premature to draw definitive conclusions regarding the use of isoflavones as an alternative to estrogen for hormone replacement in postmenopausal women.