Genistein is an isoflavone and phytonutrient (a group of plant based nutrients that are not believed to be essential to human health but do have numerous health benefits). In this article I will be looking at this isoflavone in greater detail and outlining its main health benefits, the recommended daily allowance (RDA), the richest food sources and the possible side effects of overdose.

1) DISCOVERY:

Genistein was first discovered by the Hungarian biochemist Albert Szent-Gyorgyi in 1938. He made this discovery as part of his discovery of the flavonoids (a group of phytonutrients which includes isoflavones). At first he believed he had discovered a new vitamin and so named the flavonoids vitamin P. However, additional research revealed that the flavonoids are not technically vitamins as humans can survive without consuming them.

2) HEALTH BENEFITS:

Genistein has strong antioxidant properties and can protect your cells from free radicals (harmful by-products of oxygen related reactions that can increase your cancer risk, increase your diabetes risk and damage your immune system). In addition to this, it is an anthelmintic (a substance that removes parasitic worms from the body) and phytoestrogen (a compound that works against estrogen).

Genistein has also been linked with the prevention of multiple types of cancer (including breast cancer and prostate cancer) and the prevention of diabetes. Finally, it helps keep your blood and heart healthy by preventing atherosclerosis (a condition where hard plaques build up on the artery walls and restrict the flow of blood to and from the heart).

3) RDA:

Genistein has no official RDA as it is not believed to be essential in humans. However, research has revealed that eating between 50 milligrams (mg) and 100mg of isoflavones each day will allow you to enjoy all the health benefits discussed above.

4) FOOD SOURCES:

Soybeans and soy based products are the best genistein foods. Green soybeans are a particularly rich source and contain an impressive 72.51mg of this isoflavone per 100g. Miso (24.56mg per 100g), natto (29.04mg per 100g), soy cheese (20.08mg per 100g) and soy protein isolate (59.62mg per 100g) are also excellent sources.

5) POSSIBLE OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS:

No definitive overdose symptoms have been established when it comes to genistein consumption. Provisional research has suggested that consuming high levels of this isoflavone may destroy male testicular cells, increase the growth rate of certain cancers, prevent the body from fighting cancer cells effectively and block the action of certain cancer fighting drugs. However, further evidence is required before these potential overdose symptoms can be confirmed.

Tom Parker owns Free Fitness Tips – a fantastic source of free, impartial fitness advice. You can learn more about genistein and the other isoflavones by visiting his website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6452418