The microflora of the digestive tract is composed of a unique set of bacteria, yeasts, viruses and other microorganisms, generally known as the microbiome. The microbiome exhibits considerable inter-individual variability, with up to two-thirds of the microflora differing between individuals. Because of this, the variable intestinal microflora is responsible for many differences in metabolic, hormonal and immunological processes in humans and animals. Significant differences have been observed in the metabolism of phytoestrogens, naturally occurring substances that possess estrogenic or anti-estrogenic activity. These substances occur predominately in legumes, especially in soy and many soy products. Because of their effects, phytoestrogens are used as an alternative therapy for menopausal disorders and benign prostate hyperplasia. In connection with the worldwide expansion of soy products as part of healthy lifestyles including vegetarianism and veganism, phytoestrogens have become a regular part of everyday life. The activity of phytoestrogens is strongly dependent on the microbiome. Their metabolites have stronger estrogenic activity than the natural substances themselves, and because of the variability in microbiomes, there are large differences in the effects of phytoestrogens among individuals.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.