Isoflavones
Phytoestrogenic compounds isolated from a number of plants, esp. soy and red clover. Soy isoflavones and red clover extracts are often added to “women’s” supplements, for prevention of osteoporosis, and treatment of premenstrual/menopausal symptoms.
Soy isoflavones have antioxidant activity in-vitro, although their ability to increase plasma antioxidant capacity in humans is questionable. Likewise, they appear to have little effect on metabolic parameters in post-menopausal women. Variable, and similarly questionable results have been obtained in studies on both red clover and soy isoflavones for the relief of hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. Effects on bone density are also unclear at this time. They may, however, have positive effects on levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
