Genistein, a major component of soy, was found to disrupt the development of the ovaries in newborn female mice that were given the product. This study adds to a growing body of literature demonstrating the potentially adverse consequences of genistein on the reproductive system.
‘Although we are not entirely certain about how these animal studies on genistein translate to the human population, there is some reason to be cautious,’ said Dr. David A. Schwartz, Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS).
More clinical studies are needed to determine how exposure during critical windows of development can impact human health.
Genistein is the primary naturally occurring estrogen in plants (called phytoestrogens) and can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. Genistein can be found in foods containing soy such as soy-based infant formulas as well as over-the-counter dietary supplements.