Isoflavones: effects on bone health.

Summary: Worried about keeping your bones strong as you age? Soy might be a helpful ally. A comprehensive review of over 700 studies investigated isoflavones—natural compounds found in soy that mimic estrogen. The findings suggest that these compounds can stimulate bone-building cells while slowing down the cells that break bone down. For peri- and postmenopausal women, adding high-isoflavone soy protein to the diet appears to support bone health. While scientists say we still need larger trials to prove it can prevent fractures entirely, the current evidence points to a bone-friendly benefit from soy.