Soy May Improve Metabolic Status in Women with PCOS

A daily soy supplement may improve the metabolic status in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), according to the results of a recent study.

To examine the metabolic effects of soy isoflavones on women with PCOS, the researchers performed a clinical trial that included 70 women aged 18 to 40 years who were diagnosed with PCOS using the Rotterdam criteria.
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Half of the participants were randomly assigned to a placebo group and half were assigned 50 mg of soy isoflavones per day for 12 weeks.

Using a blood sample supplied by participants at baseline and follow-up, the researchers noted metabolic, endocrine, inflammation, and oxidative stress biomarkers.

After the 12-week treatment period, women who took daily soy supplements had significantly decreased insulin levels and increased insulin sensitivity compared with those taking placebo.

In addition, those taking soy supplements had significantly reduced triglyceride panels and decreased free androgen compared with women on placebo.

Soy did not significantly affect any other lipid profiles or inflammatory or oxidative stress markers.

“Soy isoflavone administration for 12 weeks in women with PCOS significantly improved markers of insulin resistance, hormonal status, triglycerides, and biomarkers of oxidative stress,” the researchers concluded.

The researchers also wrote that more research is needed to determine optimal dosage and duration of supplementation.

—Amanda Balbi

Reference:

Jamilian M, Asemi Z. The effects of soy isoflavones on metabolic status of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome [published online August 4, 2016]. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. http://dx.doi.org/10.1210/jc.2016-1762#sthash.NnZlDW97.dpuf.