Phytoestrogens are natural, estrogen-like compounds found in plant foods, such as whole grains, seeds, fruits, and particularly soybeans. Because a small number of studies have suggested a potential link to increased risk of breast cancer, phytoestrogens have received a great deal of negative press recently. But, in fact, the majority of studies suggest that consuming foods rich in phytoestrogens actually decrease a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. While there have been no definitive studies to date, anecdotal evidence regarding the low incidence of breast cancer among Asian women, whose diets are rich in soy-based phytoestrogens, suggests there may be a positive connection. |
