Daidzein
Daidzein is a phytoestrogen, meaning it is a plant-derived compound with weak estrogenic activity. Phytoestrogens are found in a variety of plants, including soybeans and other legumes, flaxseeds, and some fruits and vegetables. In general, phytoestrogens have much weaker estrogenic effects than the body’s own naturally produced estrogen.Daidzein is the second most abundant phytoestrogen in soybeans after genistein. It is also found in other legumes such as chickpeas, lentils, and peanuts.Soybeans and products made from them are the major dietary sources of daidzein.
Health Benefits
Daidzein has been investigated for a number of possible health advantages.
Heart Wellness
Daidzein may lessen the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
To prevent cancer
Studies on animals and in test tubes indicate that daidzein may aid in the prevention of cancer, particularly breast cancer.
Bone Wellness
By promoting new bone growth and protecting existing bone, daizzein may aid in the prevention of osteoporosis.
Inflammation
Daidzein has anti-inflammatory properties and may lessen the likelihood of developing inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
Mental Health
Daidzein might enhance mental performance and guard against age-related cognitive decline.
Side Effects and Safety Concerns
Daidzein is typically regarded as secure. Bloating, gas, and nausea could occur in large doses though.
Daidzein should be used with caution by people with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids due to its estrogen-like effects.
Women who are expecting or nursing should also refrain from taking daidzein supplements.
Dosage and Preparation
Supplements containing daizéin are not widely accessible. The dosage of daidzein when taken as a supplement is 50–200 mg per day.
Daidzein can also be obtained by eating foods that contain soy. For instance, 165 grams (or one cup) of cooked soybeans contain about 40 mg of daidzein.
Check out this article on the top 10 foods that are high in phytoestrogens to learn more about the potential health benefits of daidzein and other phytoestrogens.
Interactions
Drug interactions with daizéin may occur. For instance, it could intensify the effects of estrogen therapy and blood thinners.
Consult your doctor before taking daidzein supplements if you take any medications.
Pharmacokinetics
Daidzein is quickly taken up by the gut and processed by the liver.
It is excreted in the urine and has an 8-hour half-life.
Long-term effects
The long-term effects of daidzein supplementation in humans are currently unknown. In this area, more investigation is required.
Alternatives to Daidzein
If you’re interested in taking daidzein for its potential health benefits, there are several ways to get it.
Dietary Sources
Dietary sources of daidzein are the most effective. The main dietary sources of daidzein are soybeans and soy-based products. Lentils, peanuts, and chickpeas are additional beneficial sources.
Try including soy-based foods, such as tofu, tempeh, edamame, soy milk, and soy nuts in your diet to increase your intake of daidzein. You can also take a dietary supplement that has isolated soybean extract or soy protein that has been standardized for daidzein content.
Research
Different potential health advantages of daizzein are being researched. However, more investigation is required to fully comprehend how daidzein affects human health.
Overdosage
Regarding daidzein overdose in humans, nothing is known. But excessive amounts might result in gas, bloating, and nausea.
A poison control center or an emergency room should be contacted right away if you believe you have consumed too much daizéin.