[Phytoestrogens]

Abstract

The soy-isoflavones genistein and daidzein and the flaxseed-lignans secoisolariciresinol and matairesinol belong to the group of phytoestrogens. Epidemiological data suggest that phytoestrogens have a preventive effect against various estrogen-related diseases/symptoms such as breast cancer, menopausal symptoms, cardiovascular diseases, and osteoporosis. To prove these assumptions, available controlled clinical trials have been critically reviewed. Especially soy-isoflavones have been extensively studied. There is no scientific evidence for an effect of phytoestrogens on menopausal symptoms and risk factors of breast cancer. However, isoflavones-containing soy protein can lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride serum levels. The strongest evidence exists for a preventive effect of soy isoflavones on postmenopausal bone loss of the lumbar spine. Distinct effects on estrogen-related diseases can be explained at least in part by the different affinity of isoflavones to estrogen receptors alpha and beta and the distinct tissue distribution of these receptors.