The Benefits of Plant Estrogen

Plant estrogen, also called phytoestrogen, is a natural compound found in many vegetables and fruits that is very similar to human estrogen. As people age, their bodies gradually produce less estrogen, which the body needs for such functions as bone-building and reproductive processes. Some studies, such as one published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism in 1998, show that eating foods rich in plant estrogen may prevent some chronic diseases.

Cancer Preventative

According to the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, there is evidence that eating a diet high in phytoestrogen-containing foods, particularly soy-based foods, may help prevent certain cancers, particularly hormone-associated cancers of the breast, uterus and prostate. Researchers at the University of Texas also are looking into the value of plant estrogen in preventing other cancers, such as lung cancer.

Cardiovascular Health

There is evidence, according to the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, that eating a diet rich in foods containing plant estrogen--such as soy, wheat, flax seed, apples and carrots--may confer health benefits on the heart and circulatory system. In countries where people eat diets rich in plant-based foods and low in fats and carbohydrates, there is a lower incidence of heart disease and atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Plant estrogen may also help regulate cholesterol levels in the blood.

Bone Health

In countries where people eat a diet rich in phytoestrogen-containing foods and low in fats and carbohydrates, there is a reduced incidence of osteoporosis, or loss of bone density. Some studies suggest that people in those countries lose bone mass later in life and more slowly than other people.

Menopause

According to the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City and the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, a diet high in plant estrogen may stave off symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings. Some studies are looking at whether supplementation with phytoestrogen could alleviate menopause symptoms once they begin.

Warnings

Doctors at the Hospital for Special Surgery warn that supplementing with phytoestrogen before menopause may carry health risks, and other researchers warn that taking large amounts of plant estrogen in supplement form may cause infertility and other reproductive disturbances.