Many of us have eaten tofu, a food made from soybeans, or read an article about the miraculous health benefits of soybeans. Ever wondered what makes soy work, and if it might work for you?

Interest in soy began when health statistics showed that Asian people, especially women, had lower rates of some chronic conditions as well as certain menopausal symptoms, as compared to people in the U.S. and other Western nations. Researchers began to look at the Asian diet for possible clues. Because the consumption of soy and soy products is so much higher in the diet of Asian countries, researchers began to suspect soy, and the isoflavones it contains, might account for some of the health benefits many Asians enjoyed.

Isoflavones are a type of phytochemical, or “plant chemical,” that is almost exclusively found in soy. Isoflavones are estrogen-like compounds that are similar to but weaker than human estrogen and may provide some health benefits. Some research suggests that these phytochemicals (isoflavones) may help reduce certain menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. But menopause is not the only time soy can benefit women’s health.