Fast analysis of isoflavonoids in food

As soy is the most important source of vegetable oil worldwide, it contributes essentially to a balanced diet. Secondary components such as isoflavonoids have a significant positive effect on the hormonal balance. However, adverse effects can occur. The following method for a fast and robust separation of isoflavonoids will facilitate the analysis of these food ingredients.

Post-menopausal disorders due to hormonal imbalance are often reduced by phytoestrogenes. Theses hormones are highly effective in the prophylaxis of hot flushes, osteoporosis and atherosclerosis and especially
beneficial on decreasing the risk of cancer. One natural source of these natural products is soybeans. Epidemiological studies indicate that Japanese and Chinese women suffer less from the effects of the post-menopausal disorders due to their high consumption of soy products. It is likely that isoflavonoids from soybeans reduce the side effects of the menopause. Apart of the positive effects, recent studies have revealed that adverse side effects can occur. Women affected by breast cancer or even with just a higher risk of breast cancer should avoid phytoestrogenes. As a result, a healthy recommended daily allowance should be carefully calculated, especially for children. For these reasons, it is necessary to develop an easy, reliable and fast method for the determination of isoflavonoids on a routine base.