Prepared by
Katherine Cason, PhD, RD
Page 2 of 4

Soy contains several different phytochemicals which have been associated with relief of symptoms of menopause, decreasing bone resorptio, and decreasing risk of developing certain types of cancers, kidney and cardiovascular diseases.

Table of Contents for Phytochemicals Introduction Food Guide Pyramid What are Phytochemicals? How Do Phytochemicals Work? Where Can You Find Phytochemicals? Soy Foods What are Some Soy Foods? Can I just take a phytochemical pill? How can I get more phytochemicals in my diet? Summary Review questions Back to Nutrition Curriculum Lessons

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Where Can You Find Phytochemicals?

Fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains are full of phytochemicals. In fact, orange juice has 59 known phytochemicals; broccoli has at least 40, and the herb tarragon has 70. Some of the plant foods you find these chemicals in are:

Foods	Phytochemical	May Help Prevent
Cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage,dark leafy greens	organosulfur glucosinolates	cancer
Soy Foods	isoflavones saponins	cancer, heart disease
Tomatoes and watermelons	lycopene	prostate cancer, heart disease
Onions, garlic, scallions, chives	allium compounds	cancer
Grapes, strawberries, cranberries, nuts, blackberries, raspberries	ellagic acid	cancer
Citrus fruits	monoterpenes	cancer

Soy Foods

One of the foods that contains several types of phytochemicals is soybeans. Soy contains several different phytochemicals which have been associated with relief of symptoms of menopause, decreasing bone resorption and decreasing risk of developing certain types of cancers, kidney and cardiovascular diseases. In the United States, soy products have had a negative connotation. Soy protein was considered poor man's steak, a way to extend ground meat. Despite the negativity associated with consuming soy products, recent research about the health benefits of soy make it worthwhile to give it a second look.

What are the Health Benefits of Soy?

Recent research suggests that soy protein and its phytochemical compounds may aid in the prevention of some of the major chronic diseases in the United States, including heart disease, cancer and osteoporosis, as well as reduce the symptoms of menopause. The exact component of soybeans responsible for the health-promoting effect is still unknown and it is being researched. Researchers speculate that the synergistic effect of the soluble fiber, phytoestrogens, saponins, phytate and other components may be responsible for the health benefits of soy foods.