
Soy components and cancer protection
Isoflavones
Animal and test tube studies have also shown that soy protein containing foods or soy isoflavones* can protect against the development of cancers
2 . Isoflavones inhibit the action of key enzymes and growth factors required for cancer cell growth
2 ,
15 ,
16 .
Other components
Although isoflavones have been the primary focus, researchers have identified further components of soy that could also act as anti-carcinogens. These include phytic acid, trypsin inhibitors and saponins
17 . These natural phytochemicals are also found widely in other plant foods such as wholegrains and, or nuts, although legumes tend to contain higher levels.
*Isoflavones are natural compounds found in some plant foods that researchers believe may offer potential health benefits. Foods containing soy protein are a particularly rich source of isoflavones.
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