Frequently Asked Questions

What if my patient has a history of breast cancer?
Research on the relationship, if any, between soy isoflavones and breast cancer has been inconclusive—human studies show no issues. To help you form your own opinion on this topic, we encourage you to review information such as this workshop proceeding.

What if my patient has thyroid problems?
Studies on soy isoflavones, nutrient uptake, and thyroid function are inconclusive, though human studies reveal no connection. We encourage you to read white papers like this one to form your own opinions on the issue.

How do soy isoflavones help ease menopausal symptoms?
Soybeans, soy-based foods, and soy isoflavone extracts derived from the whole soybean contain phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are a class of plant-based compounds structurally similar to estrogen that can have moderate estrogen-like effects. They are also referred to as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs).

What is an effective dose of soy isoflavones?
Generally, 50 to 55 mg total daily isoflavones as found in Novasoy® products provides the amount of genistein shown to be clinically effective to reduce hot flashes.

Can women get enough soy isoflavones through soyfoods?
Yes, but for some women it would not be easy. Women would need to eat the equivalent of one-half pound of tofu daily to get enough soy isoflavones for effective hot flash relief. Not surprisingly, women often find supplements easier to incorporate into their active, busy lifestyles.

How do we know soy isoflavone extracts are effective?
Many previous studies have been inconclusive about the efficacy of soy isoflavones. However, a recent critical analysis of previously published studies found that supplements with high genistein contents (15 mg or more) are consistently effective in reducing the frequency and severity of menopause symptoms such as hot flashes.

How do I direct my patients to the right type of soy isoflavone?
Because manufacturers do not always include individual isoflavone components on the ingredient panel, the best and easiest way to ensure that your patients get the correct level is to look for the Novasoy leaf on packaging. Novasoy soy isoflavones are derived from essentially the whole soybean and therefore include the kind and amount of soy isoflavones that were shown in multiple studies to be effective.

Where can my patients find whole soybean-based soy isoflavones?
Most health stores, supermarkets, and drug stores carry supplements. For a complete list of brands and where to buy, go to the Where to Find section of the consumer site.