Overview

Soy is high in isoflavones. Isoflavones are a type of phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogens are chemicals found in plants that work like estrogens.

Soy products may improve menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes. This is based on mixed evidence. So far, studies have used many different soy sources and different measures of success, which are hard for experts to compare.

Eating and drinking soy on a daily basis has no known risks. For some people, it upsets the digestive system.

The long-term effects of a diet high in soy have not been well-studied. High soy intake can't be considered safe until more research is done.