PHYTOESTROGENS - A SHORT REVIEW

The wide distribution of plant estrogens or 'phytoestrogens' in cereal s, vegetables and medicinal plants raises questions concerning the pos sible health risks and benefits associated with their consumption. In this article, we provide a synopsis of the literature relating princip ally to the clinical effects of phytoestrogens on the diseases associa ted with ageing. The sources, metabolism and properties of the differe nt phytoestrogens are also discussed. The studies included were primar ily restricted to those with data pertinent to clinical practice. Our contention is that phytoestrogens are at least part of the reason why vegetarians and Asian populations have a low rate of cancer and heart disease.