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Page 75
| Appendices |
| Phytoestrogens: What are They All About? |
| Phytoestrogens are plant constituents which possess estrogenic activity either by mimicking the action of estrogen in the body or affecting the body's estrogen metabolism. They are generally considered to be weaker than human hormones. Phytoestrogen compounds also vary greatly in their strength and effects on the body. Many plant compounds with phytoestrogenic activity affect the body by acting on the estrogen receptors found in the breast, ovaries and uterus. |
| The regular use of foods and herbal teas high in phytoestrogens can be helpful in the prevention of reproductive illness as well as in the treatment of many female reproductive diseases. Listed below are some of the conditions where phytoestrogens might help: |
| Prevention and treatment of breast cancer and osteoporosis. |
| Menopausal and postmenopausal complaints associated with lowered estrogen such as hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety, vaginal dryness. |
| Infertility. |
| Menstrual irregularities. |
| Hyperestrogenic conditions such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, fibrocystic breasts, endometriosis. |
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