How Soy Affects Hormones and Health

Soy contains phytoestrogens or “plant-estrogens,” which sounds bad but by out-competing estradiol, phytoestrogens can have a beneficial anti-estrogen effect in women of reproductive age.

That’s why soy and other phytoestrogens can make periods lighter and improve estrogen excess symptoms such as PMS and heavy periods. 

Food-based phytoestrogens have long been part of the human diet, so we’re adapted to them. They help to protect and buffer estrogen receptors and promote the healthy ...