Many low-carb products advertise their soy protein and isoflavone counts on their packaging as a means to entice buyers. But many people do not understand isoflavones and the health benefits that they provide.

Isoflavones are shown to fight disease and boost the immune system, prevent arterial plaque buildup, block the cancer-causing effects of human estrogen, fight osteoporosis, relieve menopause symptoms, and prevent stroke.

Isoflavones are chemical compounds found only in plants. Their makeup resembles that of estrogen, but on a weaker scale. Isoflavones are found not only in soy, but also chick peas and other legumes. Soy, however, contains the highest amount of these phytonutrients. The most potent and beneficial isoflavones in soy are genistein and daidzein.

Just one serving of soy per day has been associated with reduced risk of cancer!!
Genistein, a powerful antioxidant, has been shown in over 100 studies to reduce the growth of dangerous cells in cancers such as breast, colon, lung, leukemia, uterine, and prostate. Genistein can be found in its highest concentration in fermented products such as miso, natto, and soy sauce. Soybeans, soy milk, and tofu contain less than the fermented soy. Japanese research in 1987 showed that Genistein inhibited the activity of the enzyme Tyrosine Protein Kinase. This enzyme is involved in controlling and regulating cell growth, and targets some of the same issues as chemotherapy drugs!

Daidzein has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries as a means to treat alcoholics because it inhibits the metabolism of seratonin and dopamine in the brain.

Ingesting soy daily can cause significant changes in women. It can lengthen the menstrual cycle. It also helps fight breast-cancer because it fights the estrogen produced by the human body.

Sources of Isoflavones include: