Q: My doctor recommended soy foods for menopause. How
does soy work?
A: Soy contains a unique
group of chemically active compounds known as isoflavones.
Isoflavones mimic the effect of estrogen in the body.
Estrogen performs its magic when it binds to an estrogen
specific receptor protein on the surface of a cell. Once
estrogen is bound, the estrogen-receptor complex initiates
a chain of events that shift the cell’s metabolism
in a specific direction.
Receptors are like locks that can only be opened by the
right key. Soy isoflavones are close enough in structure
to estrogen to be able to bind to the estrogen specific
receptor. In other words, isoflavones fit the lock. When
they bind to an estrogen receptor, the cell initiates
the same metabolic shift normally produced by estrogen.
When we eat soy the isoflavones are converted in the intestines
into their active forms. Studies have shown that the beneficial
bacteria living in the intestines play a key role in activating
isoflavones. So for those seeking the benefits of soy
isoflavones it may be helpful to consume cultured foods
regularly or consider taking a probiotic supplement for
1-2 months. Consuming complex carbohydrates with soy may
further increase the beneficial action of the intestinal
bacteria.
As estrogen levels decline with age the metabolic effects
of estrogen can be maintained, to some degree, by isoflavones.
It is important, however, to note that isoflavones, while
capable of binding the estrogen receptor, are less active
than estrogen itself. A balanced diet and regular exercise
will help make a smooth transition. |
