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What Are the Side Effects of Isoflavones?

Autumn Rivers
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 11,687
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Isoflavones are said to have various benefits, but they also come with some side effects that can be bothersome and even dangerous for those who take this substance. Some side effects of isoflavones mostly affect women, because pregnant women and those who have battled breast cancer usually are most at risk of experiencing negative effects. Any woman, however, may be affected by hot flashes and weight gain when taking isoflavones. Men, on the other hand, may notice a reduced libido, infertility and memory loss while taking isoflavone supplements. Other side effects of isoflavones can affect both women and men, with diarrhea, food allergies, and headaches being some of the most common issues.

Some side effects are specific to females, because isoflavones may affect the hormonal balance in the female body, leading to some negative consequences. For example, those who have a history of breast cancer usually are discouraged from taking isoflavones because they can stimulate breast cancer cells that already may be present. Isoflavones also are said to interfere with breast cancer treatment drugs, but women without a history of this type of cancer usually are considered safe from this possible side effect. An additional concern is that isoflavones could be detrimental to unborn babies, who need a specific balance of hormones to develop properly in the womb, so pregnant women usually are advised to skip this type of supplement. Any woman is susceptible to the weight gain and hot flashes that can come with isoflavones, so females are advised to ensure that the possible benefits outweigh the possible side effects.

Men also may experience some side effects of isoflavones that women may not get, because the two usually have different hormonal balances. One of the biggest side effects in men is a reduced libido, because increased estrogen can lead to decreased testosterone levels, which also may result in infertility. Additional side effects for men may include fatigue, memory loss and decreased cognitive function. Many studies show that women do not experience these side effects of isoflavones, so men should keep this in mind before taking this substance based on favorable reviews from women.

Some side effects of isoflavones affect both men and women. Some people become constipated while taking soy isoflavones, while others may have diarrhea and an upset stomach. Headaches and a sensation of dizziness also are some negative effects of isoflavones. It also is possible that this substance causes kidney stones, food allergies and thyroid issues, so people who decide to take isoflavones are advised to keep an eye out for these side effects.

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Autumn Rivers
By Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers, a talented writer for WiseGeek, holds a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University. Her background in journalism helps her create well-researched and engaging content, providing readers with valuable insights and information on a variety of subjects.

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Discussion Comments
By anon1004137 — On Nov 25, 2020

Many of the adverse effects that you describe are not supported by the preponderance of scientific studies. If you do have studies that support your statements, then cite them. I would suggest you do a little research on isoflavones on isoflavones suggest you start with the National Institute Health library. Let's take, for example, that phytoestrogens are not estrogens. So, when you reference an affinity to bind to alpha or beta cell receptors, you need to understand what the difference phytoestrogens and estrogens. It would also help if you understood the relationship metabolized Isoflavones have on estradiol-17beta, cortisol, 2ME2. and generally adiols in general.

Apparently you don't know or understand the effects of isoflavones on the upper end of the hormonal cascade where the stress hormones are found and the impact on the immunity boosting hormones found at the bottom of the cascade. Some of us have forgotten more about isoflavones than you will ever know.

There are no laws when it comes to providing inaccurate information to an unsuspecting public. Oh, one other point: red clover is on the Old Dietary Ingredients list. Show me an FDA document that supports the adverse effects and cautions the consumer from using Isoflavones.

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers, a talented writer for WiseGeek, holds a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University. Her background in journalism helps her create well-researched and engaging content, providing readers with valuable insights and information on a variety of subjects.
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