Definition: A type of phytoestrogen (plant estrogen) that occurs in large amounts in soybeans, as well as in red clover, fava beans, chickpeas, peanuts and other legumes. Isoflavones are chemically similar to human estrogens, and possess antioxidant properties.
Pronunciation: i-so-FLA-von
Common Misspellings: isaflavone
Examples:
The main isoflavones in soybeans are genistein and daidzein. Researchers are divided about the benefits and risks of consuming foods that are high in isoflavones, particularly genistein, saying that it may promote, or protect against the development of cancer.
