Soy and Its Isoflavones:
A Review of Their Effects on Bone Density

This section is compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C.
Send all comments or additions to:   Frankp@chiro.org

FROM: Alternative Medicine Review 2002 (Aug);   7 (4):   317–327 ~ FULL TEXT

Brynin R

Southern California University of Health Sciences, 16200 East Amber Valley Drive, Whittier, CA 90609, USA


Menopausal hormone decline contributes significantly to the risk of osteoporosis. Therapies for treating osteoporosis, such as hormone replacement therapy (estrogen or combination estrogen-progestins), inhibit bone resorption. Both animal and human studies demonstrate phytoestrogenic soy isoflavones favorably impact bone health. The exact mechanism is still unclear. Additional research is needed to determine if isoflavones are an effective alternative to hormone replacement therapy for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. This paper reviews in vitro, animal, and human studies involving isoflavones and bone health.

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