Soy terminology

Throughout this guide, and indeed in much of the material you will read on the subject of soy, the scientific terms 'phytochemicals', 'phytoestrogens' and 'isoflavones' will be commonly used.

Phytochemicals are chemicals found naturally in plants that are believed to offer various health benefits.

Phytoestrogens are a type of phytochemical that have a similar structure to the hormone oestrogen. Two major types of phytoestrogens are isoflavones and lignans. Phytoestrogens occur richly in legumes, particularly soybeans, linseeds, and in lower but significant quantities in wholegrain cereals, other seeds and nuts and many fruits and vegetables.

Isoflavones (a type of phytoestrogen) are important compounds found in soy beans and most soy protein rich foods. Soy is naturally rich in isoflavones, and in combination with soy protein, these phytochemicals are thought to play a critical role in the health benefits associated with consuming soy.

Definitions for other terms used throughout this site are listed in the Glossary.