Novasoy Soy Bean Extract
Also known as: Soybean extract, Soy isoflavones, Novasoy soy isoflavone concentrate, Genistein, Daidzein, Glycitein, Glycine max isoflavones
Overview
Novasoy is a branded, concentrated extract of soy isoflavones derived from *Glycine max* (soybean). These plant-derived compounds are structurally similar to estrogen and are naturally found in soybeans. Novasoy is primarily used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes, and to support bone health, skin health, and potentially cardiovascular and cognitive function. The extract contains high levels of genistein, which selectively binds to estrogen receptors, mimicking some estrogenic effects. Research on soy isoflavones is moderate to advanced, with several systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) supporting its efficacy, though specific studies on the Novasoy brand often rely on general soy isoflavone data. The evidence base includes high-quality studies, but variability in isoflavone composition across products can influence outcomes.
Benefits
Soy isoflavones, such as those in Novasoy, offer several evidence-based benefits, particularly for postmenopausal women. The most significant benefit is the reduction of menopausal hot flashes; a systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 RCTs demonstrated that soy isoflavones (median dose ~54 mg aglycone equivalents) reduce hot flash frequency by approximately 20.6% (95% CI: -28.38 to -12.86; p < 0.00001) over 6 weeks to 12 months compared to placebo. This reduction is considered clinically meaningful. Preliminary RCTs also suggest that soy isoflavones may help retain bone calcium in postmenopausal women, contributing to bone health, though effect sizes vary and require further confirmation. Additionally, isoflavones may improve cardiovascular health by reducing arterial stiffness, enhancing arterial flexibility in men and postmenopausal women. Secondary benefits include potential improvements in skin health, possibly through estrogen receptor-mediated pathways, and some evidence suggests a protective effect against cognitive decline, especially in women under 65, although RCTs have not consistently shown statistically significant cognitive improvements. Postmenopausal women are the primary beneficiaries, with hot flash improvements typically observed within 6 weeks to 12 months.
How it works
Soy isoflavones function primarily as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). They bind to estrogen receptors, particularly estrogen receptor beta (ERβ), modulating estrogenic activity in various tissues. This interaction allows them to mimic some of estrogen's effects, influencing the endocrine system. In the cardiovascular system, isoflavones contribute to improved arterial flexibility, likely through their interaction with vascular endothelium. Their potential neuroprotective effects, which may impact cognitive function, are thought to involve central nervous system pathways. Isoflavones are absorbed in the gut, where intestinal bacteria convert their glycoside forms into more bioavailable aglycones. The specific composition of an individual's gut microbiota can influence their absorption and bioavailability.
Side effects
Novasoy soy isoflavones are generally considered safe at typical supplement doses (40-80 mg/day total isoflavones), with no major adverse effects reported in high-quality studies. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of individuals, are mild and typically involve gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include allergic reactions in individuals with known soy sensitivities. Rare side effects (less than 1%) have not been significantly documented. Caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions, particularly with hormone-sensitive medications, hormone replacement therapy, or certain cancer treatments, due to the phytoestrogenic nature of isoflavones. Contraindications include known soy allergy, and individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers should consult a physician before use. While postmenopausal women are the primary users, safety in pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been well established.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for menopausal symptom relief, particularly hot flashes, is approximately 40 mg/day of total isoflavones. Optimal dosage ranges from 40-80 mg/day of total isoflavones, consistent with doses used in randomized controlled trials demonstrating efficacy. The maximum safe dose is considered to be up to 80 mg/day based on comprehensive risk assessments. For hot flash relief, benefits are typically observed after 6 weeks of consistent daily intake. Concentrated extracts like Novasoy provide standardized isoflavone content, and aglycone equivalents are preferred for better bioavailability. Individual gut microbiota composition can influence isoflavone metabolism and absorption. No specific cofactors are required, but overall nutritional status may play a role in outcomes.
FAQs
Is Novasoy effective for hot flashes?
Yes, soy isoflavones, including those in Novasoy, have been shown to reduce hot flash frequency by about 20% compared to placebo in clinical studies.
Are soy isoflavones safe long-term?
Generally, soy isoflavones are considered safe for long-term use at typical supplement doses, with no major safety concerns identified in comprehensive reviews.
How soon do benefits appear?
Relief from hot flashes typically begins within 6 weeks to 3 months of consistent daily intake of soy isoflavones.
Can soy isoflavones affect hormone-sensitive conditions?
Due to their phytoestrogenic properties, soy isoflavones may interact with hormone-sensitive conditions. Consult a healthcare provider if you have such conditions or are on hormone therapy.
Does Novasoy improve bone health?
Preliminary evidence suggests that soy isoflavones may help retain bone calcium in postmenopausal women, but more research is needed to confirm this benefit.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6946090/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effect of soy on fasting plasma glucose and insulin in type 2 diabetes. It concluded that soy consumption did not significantly benefit these metabolic markers, suggesting limited or condition-specific metabolic effects.
- https://experts.llu.edu/en/publications/extracted-or-synthesized-soybean-isoflavones-reduce-menopausal-ho-2 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 RCTs (n≥30) found that soy isoflavones (median 54 mg/day) significantly reduced hot flash frequency by 20.6% over 6 weeks to 12 months compared to placebo, with high statistical significance and moderate heterogeneity, supporting their efficacy for menopausal symptom relief.
- https://vkm.no/download/18.645b840415d03a2fe8f25c54/1502712224209/Risk%20assessment%20of%20%22other%20substances%22%20%E2%80%93%20Isoflavones%20from%20soy.pdf – This comprehensive risk assessment by the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM) concluded that doses of soy isoflavones up to 80 mg/day are safe, with no consistent pattern of adverse effects across studies. It also highlighted the variability in isoflavone composition and extraction methods across different products.
- https://www.adm.com/globalassets/products--services/human-nutrition/products/specialty-health-solutions/19adn008_novasoyisoflavones_refresh_031220.pdf – This product science summary from ADM Novasoy cites multiple independent studies, including peer-reviewed RCTs and meta-analyses, to support the benefits of Novasoy's high genistein content. It highlights efficacy for hot flashes, bone calcium retention, skin health, and arterial flexibility, providing a concise overview of the ingredient's scientific backing.
- https://www.alzdiscovery.org/uploads/cognitive_vitality_media/Soy_isoflavones_UPDATE_(supplement).pdf – A review by the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation suggests that soy isoflavones appear safe and may offer modest cognitive benefits, particularly in women under 65. However, it notes that small randomized controlled trials have not consistently shown statistically significant improvements in cognitive function.