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3Medicinal

Soy isoflavones

Also sold as Genistein, daidzein, soy extract

Plant compounds with weak oestrogen-like activity, studied for hot flushes and bone health — modest benefits in some trials.

TrustedSupp Tier System™ · Tier 3Take as a defined course
Check before you startThis one has documented interactions with medication classes where the consequences are serious. If you take any prescription medicine, run it past a pharmacist before starting.

Evidence strength

40/100Limited
WEAKLIMITEDMODERATESTRONGVERY STRONG

What the evidence supports: modest reduction in hot flush frequency in meta-analyses.

This scores how well-supported the claim above is — not how much benefit you personally would get. A high score on a narrow claim does not extend to everything the product is marketed for.

How long to take it

Course-based, reassessed after 3–6 months.

Who it's actually for

Women with menopausal hot flushes seeking non-hormonal options, after discussion with a clinician.

Safe upper limit

Unverified
No formal upper limit; 40–100 mg isoflavones daily in most trials
Food-level soy intake is considered safe. Concentrated supplements warrant more caution with hormone-sensitive conditions. Taken at the same time, soy can reduce absorption of thyroid medication.
No source or citation attached yet.

Interactions to know about

Other supplements:

Run your full list through the interaction check.

Practical notes

  • Only some people's gut bacteria convert daidzein to equol, which may explain why responses vary.
  • Separate from thyroid medication by several hours.
  • Discuss with your oncologist if you have a hormone-sensitive cancer history.