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Phytoestrogen Medical Definition

By , About.com Guide

Updated February 25, 2011

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Definition: Phytoestrogens are plant-based compounds that act like the hormone estrogen. There are two basic types of phytoestrogens: isoflavones and lignans.
Pronunciation: FI-toh-ES-tro-jin
Also Known As: phyto estrogen, plant estrogen
Common Misspellings: phitoestrogen
Examples:
You can add phytoestrogens to your diet by eating flaxseeds, soy products, whole grains, berries, and broccoli – as well as many other kinds of fruits and vegetables. Phytoestrogens may help your body fight cancer.

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