Reduced blood pressure: Resveratrol and quercetin supplements may reduce blood pressure ( 11, 12).Several studies show that phytoestrogen supplements may provide health benefits. The following two sections discuss the possible benefits and drawbacks of phytoestrogens. However, a few studies suggest that a high intake of isoflavones may cause problems under certain circumstances. Most studies indicate that phytoestrogens may benefit health. Phytoestrogens are plant compounds that are structurally similar to the sex hormone estrogen. While some researchers are concerned that high doses of phytoestrogens may disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, most studies have associated them with health benefits. Knowledge of phytoestrogens is gradually expanding, and scientists are regularly discovering new types. Quercetin: This is one of the most common and abundant antioxidant flavonoids, found in numerous fruits, vegetables and grains ( 4).It is believed to be responsible for some of the health benefits of red wine. Resveratrol: Found in fruits, berries, red wine, chocolate and peanuts.They’re abundant in soybeans and other legumes, and also present in berries, grains, nuts and wine ( 7). Isoflavones: These are the most widely studied phytoestrogens.Flaxseeds are an especially rich source ( 9, 10). Lignans: Found in many fiber-packed plant foods, such as seeds, grains, nuts, fruits and berries.Some of the most studied phytoestrogens include: They all belong to a large group of plant compounds known as polyphenols ( 5, 6, 7, 8). Phytoestrogens are found in most plant-derived foods in varying amounts. Some block estrogen’s effects, while others mimic its effects ( 4). Also, not all phytoestrogens work the same. However, the effects of phytoestrogens are much weaker than those of estrogen. These receptors mediate estrogen’s functions within the body ( 3). Phytoestrogens’ similarity to estrogen means they can interact with estrogen receptors in cells. This hormone is responsible for women’s fertility as well as maintaining feminine body features, but it also plays an important role in men. The prefix “phyto” refers to plants.Įstrogen levels are higher in women than men. They’re called “phytoestrogens” because their chemical structure resembles the structure of the sex hormone estrogen. Many have strong antioxidant properties and some may play a role in the plants’ defense against infections ( 1, 2). Phytoestrogens are a group of naturally occurring compounds found in numerous plant foods.