The article by Herman Adlercreutz and Witold Mazur explores the potential health benefits of phyto-oestrogens, particularly lignans and isoflavonoids, in the context of Western diseases. They postulate that the Western diet, which is high in processed foods and low in certain nutrients, may alter hormone production and metabolism, leading to an increased incidence of chronic diseases such as cancer, coronary heart disease, and osteoporosis. The authors focus on the biological activities of these phyto-oestrogens, which are found in plant foods like soybeans, flaxseed, and whole grains. These compounds can be converted by intestinal bacteria into hormone-like compounds that influence sex hormone production, metabolism, and biological activity. Key findings include: 1. **Cancer Prevention**: Phyto-oestrogens may prevent cancer by modulating hormone concentrations and actions, inhibiting cell proliferation, and affecting angiogenesis. 2. **Cardiovascular Health**: They may reduce the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins and affect plasma lipid concentrations, potentially lowering the risk of coronary heart disease. 3. **Menopause Symptoms**: Phyto-oestrogens can alleviate hot flushes and vaginal dryness in postmenopausal women. 4. **Osteoporosis**: While they may help prevent osteoporosis, their effectiveness is limited. 5. **Metabolic Enzymes**: Phyto-oestrogens inhibit various steroid biosynthetic and metabolic enzymes, which may contribute to their disease-preventive effects. 6. **Menstrual Cycle**: Some studies suggest that phyto-oestrogens can alter the menstrual cycle, but the effects are generally small and unlikely to affect fertility. 7. **Angiogenesis and Tumour Invasion**: Genistein, a major isoflavone, inhibits angiogenesis and may have anti-tumour effects by targeting angiogenic factors and enzymes. The authors conclude that while the exact mechanisms and optimal dietary amounts of phyto-oestrogens are still under investigation, these compounds show promise as natural protectants against Western diseases.The article by Herman Adlercreutz and Witold Mazur explores the potential health benefits of phyto-oestrogens, particularly lignans and isoflavonoids, in the context of Western diseases. They postulate that the Western diet, which is high in processed foods and low in certain nutrients, may alter hormone production and metabolism, leading to an increased incidence of chronic diseases such as cancer, coronary heart disease, and osteoporosis. The authors focus on the biological activities of these phyto-oestrogens, which are found in plant foods like soybeans, flaxseed, and whole grains. These compounds can be converted by intestinal bacteria into hormone-like compounds that influence sex hormone production, metabolism, and biological activity. Key findings include: 1. **Cancer Prevention**: Phyto-oestrogens may prevent cancer by modulating hormone concentrations and actions, inhibiting cell proliferation, and affecting angiogenesis. 2. **Cardiovascular Health**: They may reduce the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins and affect plasma lipid concentrations, potentially lowering the risk of coronary heart disease. 3. **Menopause Symptoms**: Phyto-oestrogens can alleviate hot flushes and vaginal dryness in postmenopausal women. 4. **Osteoporosis**: While they may help prevent osteoporosis, their effectiveness is limited. 5. **Metabolic Enzymes**: Phyto-oestrogens inhibit various steroid biosynthetic and metabolic enzymes, which may contribute to their disease-preventive effects. 6. **Menstrual Cycle**: Some studies suggest that phyto-oestrogens can alter the menstrual cycle, but the effects are generally small and unlikely to affect fertility. 7. **Angiogenesis and Tumour Invasion**: Genistein, a major isoflavone, inhibits angiogenesis and may have anti-tumour effects by targeting angiogenic factors and enzymes. The authors conclude that while the exact mechanisms and optimal dietary amounts of phyto-oestrogens are still under investigation, these compounds show promise as natural protectants against Western diseases.