[Isoflavones--an update on scientific data]

The isoflavones are "phytoprotectants" which had been subject of considerable scientific research in recent years. Beside the health benefits related to menopausal problems there is an interest in the possible preventive role concerning cancer, cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. Inspite of having a large amount of data providing positive evidence there still remain questions concerning the role of the isoflavones in nutritional prevention and therapy. With regard to this there should be taken a reference to the bioavailability and metabolism of the isoflavones and the fact that there are remarkable interindividual differences which could be influenced to a great extent by the composition of intestinal flora. This variation in the metabolism of soy isoflavones might cause differences in the beneficial effects of soy foods and isoflavones and therefore this should be considered in science and practice.