Phytoestrogens are compounds found in plants with estrogenic activity. Their chemical structure is similar to estradiol. Three main classes of phytoestrogens are: isoflavones, lignans and coumestans. The major bioactive isoflavones are genistein and daidzein. Phytoestrogens are widely present in plants regularly consumed by animals and humans: e.g. oats, barley, wheat, corn, and clover. The most significant sources of isoflavones are soybeans and soy foods. Lignans are present in plant foods: mainly in flaxseed, but also in grains, fruit and vegetables. Phytoestrogens are compounds which exhibit estrogenic activity. This activity was first recognized in sheep and is known as “Clover Disease”. In these animals phytoestrogens cause reproductive disorders or even infertility. The feeding of female rats with a soy rich diet induces an increase in uterine weight. Vaginal modifications have also been observed. Phytoestrogens also exhibit anticarcinogenic activity. Animal studies have demonstrated reduced cancer development with soybean consumption. Genistein and other phytoestrogens have a beneficial role in obesity and diabetes mellitus. These compounds cause slight decreases in insulin, total cholesterol and triglycerides content. Phytoestrogens also increase the amount of cholesterol in high density lipoproteins (HDL) and decrease the amount of VLDL- and LDL-cholesterol, they can reduce risk of cardiovascular diseases. Experiments performed on animals demonstrate that genistein and daidzein clearly inhibit lipogenesis and enhance lipolysis. Phytoestrogens also have a special role in the prevention of osteoporosis.
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