Isoflavones: effects on cardiovascular risk and functions

Isoflavones, plant polyphenols with estrogenic activity, are becoming widely distributed in foods and sold as supplements. Their similarity to estrogens suggests potential cardiovascular benefits. Two major areas, those of lipid lowering and of improved vascular function, will be reviewed. The novel properties of isoflavone metabolites formed in vivo that may confer specific cardiovascular protection are documented. Although lipid lowering is at...