phyto-oestrogenes in alimentation

Introduction

Phyto-oestrogens are naturally occurring plant compounds that mimic the action of estrogen in the body. They are found in various foods, particularly soy products and whole grains, and have been studied for their potential health benefits, including cancer prevention and bone health.

Key Insights

Cancer Prevention:
- High intake of phyto-oestrogens, particularly isoflavones like equol and lignans like enterolactone, is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer .
- Soy-based phyto-oestrogens may have protective effects against prostate and colorectal cancers, with evidence suggesting they influence hormone production and metabolism .
- Epidemiological studies indicate that populations with high phyto-oestrogen intake, such as those in Asia, have lower incidences of hormone-dependent cancers .
Bioavailability and Metabolism:
- Phyto-oestrogens require initial hydrolysis by intestinal enzymes for absorption. They are then metabolized by gut bacteria into active forms like equol and enterolactone .
- There is significant interindividual variation in the metabolism of phyto-oestrogens, influenced by diet and gut microflora .
Bone Health:
- Soy isoflavones, such as genistein and daidzein, have been shown to reduce bone resorption and may help maintain bone mineral density, particularly in postmenopausal women .
- Animal studies consistently show that soy-based diets improve bone mass and turnover, although human studies have shown mixed results .
Cardiovascular Health:
- Phyto-oestrogens may contribute to cardiovascular health by lowering plasma lipids, increasing vasodilation, and potentially reducing the activation of blood platelets and vascular smooth muscle cells .
Dietary Sources:
- Soy products are the richest sources of isoflavones, while whole grains, seeds, and berries are significant sources of lignans .
- In Europe, lignans may be more prevalent in the diet compared to isoflavones due to the higher consumption of whole grains and seeds.

Conclusion

Phyto-oestrogens, found in soy products and whole grains, have potential health benefits, particularly in reducing the risk of hormone-dependent cancers and supporting bone and cardiovascular health. Their effectiveness is influenced by individual metabolism and dietary habits. While animal studies show promising results, human studies are still inconclusive, highlighting the need for further research to establish definitive dietary recommendations.

Phyto-oestrogenes in alimentation

Summary

Introduction

Key Insights

Conclusion

Sources and full results

Case-control study of phyto-oestrogens and breast cancer

High intake of phyto-oestrogens, particularly equol and enterolactone, is associated with a substantial reduction in breast-cancer risk.

Bioavailability of phyto-oestrogens

Phyto-oestrogens, found in soya products and flaxseed, have potential health benefits, but their bioavailability and metabolism depend on factors such as diet and gut microflora.

Phyto-oestrogens and Western diseases.

Phyto-oestrogens found in soybeans, whole-grain cereals, seeds, and berries may play a role in preventing cancer development and atherosclerosis, but their exact dietary amounts for prevention remain unclear.

Analysis of phyto-oestrogens by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

This study developed a simple, robust method for analyzing phyto-oestrogens in biological samples and food matrices, revealing high levels of these compounds in Japanese men and their potential cancer-protective effects.

Phyto-oestrogens: where are we now?

Phyto-oestrogens, found in plant foods and legumes, may offer protection against various human conditions, but their effectiveness remains inconclusive due to insufficient analytical standards and limited research.

Food sources of phyto-oestrogens and their precursors in Europe

European diets are more likely to include lignans, rather than soya isoflavones, as a significant source of phyto-oestrogens, potentially reducing the risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis.

Effects of phyto-oestrogens on tissues

Phyto-oestrogens in soyabeans may prevent atherosclerosis and reduce breast cancer risk, but long-term consumption remains uncertain.

Dietary phyto-oestrogens and bone health

Dietary phyto-oestrogens show potential in preventing osteoporosis, but more research is needed to confirm their safety, optimal dose, and individual response.

Phyto-oestrogens in herbage and milk from cows grazing white clover, red clover, lucerne or chicory-rich pastures.

Red clover pastures have the highest concentration and best source of phyto-oestrogens in bovine milk, especially equol.

Phyto-oestrogens and cancer.

Phyto-oestrogens in soy and whole grain products may have a protective effect against breast, prostate, and colon cancer, but their role in prevention remains unclear.

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