Dietary phytoestrogens: disease prevention versus potential hazards

Abstract

Dietary phytoestrogens are currently being extensively investigated because of the possibility that they may protect against disease. Soya isoflavones, in particular, are attracting considerable attention because there is increasing evidence that they may protect against breast and prostate cancers and heart disease and osteoporosis. Considers the evidence for disease prevention by phytoestrogens and the biological mechanisms by which they may act. Explores dietary sources of phytoestrogens and the production of both traditional and non‐traditional soya foods. Considers the potential hazards of dietary phytoestrogens, including their use in infant formulas and associated, possibly harmful, developmental effects, and the possibility that they may display the harmful oestrogenic effects of oral contraceptives by increasing risk of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots). Finally, assesses the benefits versus the risk of dietary phytoestrogens.

Citation

Wiseman, H. (1997), "Dietary phytoestrogens: disease prevention versus potential hazards", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 97 No. 1, pp. 32-38. https://doi.org/10.1108/00346659710157303