Phytoestrogens - Plant Hormones

What are Phytoestrogens?

..... by Dieter Luske N.D.-D.C.H.-D.M.H.-D.H

Holistic Therapy Consultant - Gold Coast - Canungra

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What are Phytoestrogens?

Phytoestrogens are part of a plan's natural defence mechanism. During times of stress, such as drought or insect infestation, levels of phytoestrogens increase dramatically. Therefore it is very difficult to determine the precise phytoestrogen level of a food. Levels are highest in the dry soybean before processing or cooking, with values ranging from 47-363mg isoflavone/100g.

A dose of 126mg isoflavones/day has been suggested as a short term preventative for post menopausal bone loss.

A daily dose of 28.5mg isoflavones has shown a decrease in HDL “bad” cholesterol levels after 6 months.

A dose of 40-80mg/day of phytoestrogens is considered sufficient to manage most menopausal conditions.

That is the level of phytoestrogens found in traditional diets and is considered a safe level for long term use.

Phytoestrogens require activation via gut micro flora so it is important that you have an optimal digestive system. Some people may require pre and probiotics to improve their gut micro flora. Seek advice from your naturopath in this area. Fermented soy products such as miso and tempeh are better if you have a compromised digestive system as they have been partially digested and are easier to utilize.

It is always preferable to obtain phytoestrogens via whole foods instead of isolated ingredients in a tablet.

It is the synergistic properties of all the plants active ingredients that will give the best results.

Eat according to traditional diet - tofu, tempeh, whole soy beans, soy milk made from organic, non-GMO ( as seen in the Japanese traditional diet) as well as various fruits, vegetables, beans and grains (as seen in the European traditional diet).

Avoid processed GMO soy foods and always buy organic where possible.

Dietary Sources of Phytoestrogens

1. Herbs: Alfalfa - Aniseed - Caraway - Chervil - Cumin - Dill - Fennel - Fenugreek - Licorice root - Oregano - Parsley - Sage.
   (Herb teas can be made from a selection of these)

2. Fruits: Apples - Berries - Cherries - Plums - Rhubarb.

3. Vegetables: Broccoli - Buckwheat - Cabbage - Carrots - Cauliflower - Capsicum - Celery - Corn - Cucumber - Eggplant - Green Beans - Linseed - Potatoes - Seeds Sprouts.

4. Beans: Soy beans Including: Tofu - Tempeh- Miso - Soy milk - Chickpeas - Lentils - Peas - All other dried beans.

5. Grains: Brown rice - Barley - Bulgur - Millet - Oats - Whole Wheat.

Ground Linseeds – One dessertspoon daily provides hormonal support, essential fatty acids and fibre. - If possible, grind in small batches yourself and keep in the fridge. The essential fatty acids go rancid rapidly when exposed to air so if buying them pre-ground ensure it is as fresh as possible, well sealed and kept in the fridge.

Caution:
Excessive amounts of soy protein can have a suppressive effect on the thyroid. If you have hypothyroidism please see your naturopath before consuming large quantities of soy foods.

Levels of Isoflavones in Common Soy Foods

Article provided by ...

the editor of Use Nature, Dieter Luske

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* Disclaimer - Any general advice given in any article should not be relied upon and should not be taken as a substitute for visiting a qualified medical Doctor.