During menopause, oestrogen levels drop, bringing many challenges. Soya isoflavones are plant compounds that can mimic oestrogen in the body.
You might have come across terms like "soya bean extract" or "genistein" and wondered how they fit together. Let's explore how they work.
What Are Soya Isoflavones?
Soya isoflavones, derived from soya beans, are a type of phytoestrogen—natural plant compounds with oestrogen-like properties. They interact with oestrogen receptors in the body.
Genistein: The Star of Soya Isoflavones
Within soya isoflavones, there are specific compounds—one of the most important being genistein. Genistein is a type of isoflavone with powerful oestrogen-like properties. When you see “soya bean extract” on a product label, it often contains a combination of different isoflavones, including genistein. In fact, only high-quality soya extracts are standardized to provide a specific percentage of genistein. Genistein has been researched for many benefits, including its superior bioavailability compared to other isoflavones 1 . This higher bioavailability allows the body to absorb and utilize genistein more effectively, enhancing its overall health benefits 2 .
For instance, our product contains 135 mg of soya bean extract, with 40% of it being genistein—which means you're getting about 54 mg of genistein in every dose. This standardization ensures that the extract delivers consistent and effective support.
How Does It Work?
After consuming soya isoflavones, the body processes them with the help of gut microbes, turning them into oestrogen-like compounds. This ability to absorb and process genistein may explain why it works better for some women than others.
The Bottom Line
When you see “soya bean extract” on our menopause support product, think of it as a powerful botanical ingredient. Genistein, one of the key compounds in this extract, may help your body cope with the challenges of low oestrogen 2 .
Feel confident knowing that every dose of our product provides the right amount of genistein to help you in your menopause journey, feel balanced, and live life to the fullest.
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*The advice in this article is for information only and should not replace medical care. As with any nutritional supplement please consult your qualified healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, if you have a known medical condition or are taking medication. Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
References
- Setchell KDR, Brown NM, Desai P, Zimmer-Nechemias L, Wolfe BE, Brashear WT, et al. Bioavailability of Pure Isoflavones in Healthy Humans and Analysis of Commercial Soy Isoflavone Supplements. The Journal of Nutrition. 2001 Apr 1;131(4):1362S1375S. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11285356/
- Kang I, Rim CH, Yang HS, Choe JS, Kim JY, Lee M. Effect of isoflavone supplementation on menopausal symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrition Research and Practice. 2022;16(Suppl 1):S147. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35651836/
Genna Nelson
Nutritional Therapist & GN Wellness
