A review published in the International journal of molecular sciences 2025 takes an in-depth look at the role of daidzein and genistein, two isoflavones found in soy and red clover, as natural alternatives to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in menopause. The authors reviewed in vitro, in vivo and in vivo data […].
A review published in the International journal of molecular sciences 2025 takes an in-depth look at the role of daidzein and genistein, two isoflavones found in soy and red clover, as natural alternatives to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in menopause. The authors reviewed in vitro, in vivo and clinical trial data to assess their efficacy, safety and mechanisms of action on oestrogen receptors. The findings are relevant for women in menopause or perimenopause seeking evidence-based nutritional support options.
What the 2025 review of daidzein and genistein in menopausal symptom management revealed
Oestrogen decline in menopause is associated with hot flushes, night sweats, increased cardiovascular risk and loss of bone density. Daidzein and genistein are structurally similar to 17β-estradiol, the main endogenous oestrogen, allowing them to bind to the oestrogen receptors ERα and ERβ with a preference for ERβ. This selectivity is key: ERβ activation is associated with anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects, unlike ERα activation, which is linked to cell proliferation in tissues such as breast and uterus.
Clinical trials reviewed show that genistein supplementation at doses of 30-54mg daily can reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flushes compared to placebo, with reductions of up to 50% in some studies. The effects were more pronounced in women producing equol, a metabolite of daidzein with enhanced oestrogenic activity. Not all trials showed statistically significant differences, pointing to individual variability and the role of gut microbiota in the metabolism of these isoflavones. Only 30-50% of the Western population produces equol efficiently.
In relation to bone health, the clinical evidence is more consistent. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials report that genistein and daidzein reduce bone resorption and help maintain bone mineral density in postmenopausal women, with more pronounced effects in interventions lasting at least 12 months and with genistein doses of 50 mg per day or higher.
Why the SERM mechanism of isoflavones explains their differential safety profile compared to conventional hormone therapy
Conventional HRT acts systemically on both oestrogen receptors. Isoflavones, acting preferentially on ERβ, show a more selective tissue action profile. The 2025 review shows that regular dietary consumption of genistein and daidzein is not associated with an increased risk of breast or endometrial cancer in healthy women. Populations with high soy consumption from an early age show lower rates of these tumours.
The authors caution that isoflavone supplements at high doses, above 100 mg daily, may produce mild gastrointestinal effects and that people with a history of hormone-dependent cancers should consult their doctor before use. Regular dietary consumption of soy, equivalent to 40-50 mg isoflavones per day, is considered safe in the general population based on available data.
The bioavailability of these isoflavones is moderate, approximately 20-30%, with significant individual variability determined by gut microbiota composition and hepatic metabolism. This means that the form of the extract, its standardisation and the consistency of supplementation are determining factors in obtaining a stable and predictable supply of active isoflavones.
How Nutribiolite’s Menovon applies the physiological logic of the study with standardised soy and red clover extracts
The study specifically looks specifically at daidzein and genistein, the main isoflavones in soy, and identifies red clover as a complementary source with a distinct profile that includes formononetin and biochanin A. This combination broadens the spectrum of active isoflavones with different oestrogen receptor binding patterns.
Menovon provides 40 mg of isoflavones per capsule, from equal parts of dry soybean seed extract standardised to 40% isoflavones, with genistein and daidzein as the main components, and dry red clover extract standardised to 8% isoflavones, rich in formononetin and biochanin A. This dual source provides the varied and balanced profile that the review identifies as relevant to the menopausal context. The standardisation of both extracts ensures a constant and reproducible concentration in each batch, a factor that the study itself identifies as a determining factor for the consistency of clinical results.
The formula also includes dry extract of black cohosh rhizome standardised to 2.5% triterpene glycosides and dry extract of chasteberry fruit standardised to 0.5% vitexin, two plants traditionally used in the context of perimenopause and menopause, with health claims currently under evaluation by EFSA. Vitamins D3 as cholecalciferol, B6 in its bioactive form pyridoxal-5-phosphate and natural E as D-alpha-tocopheryl acetate complete the formula. Vitamin D3 contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, consistent with the findings of the postmenopausal bone health study. Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity and normal functioning of the nervous system. Vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells against oxidative damage, a mechanism also described in the study for isoflavones.
Menovon contains no synthetic additives, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, colourings or preservatives. Its format of 1 capsule daily for 90 days facilitates the consistency that the clinical trials themselves identify as necessary to observe results in bone health and vasomotor symptoms.
Menovon combines soya isoflavones and red clover with black cohosh, chasteberry and vitamins D3, B6 in P5P form and natural E, in standardised extracts and without synthetic additives, for a precise and constant supply during the menopause.
Frequently asked questions about isoflavones in menopause and Menovon
What are isoflavones and why are they studied in the context of the menopause?
Isoflavones are polyphenolic compounds present in plants such as soya and red clover. Their structure is similar to that of 17β-estradiol, the main human oestrogen, allowing them to bind to the oestrogen receptors ERα and ERβ. In menopause, the decline in endogenous oestrogen leads to vasomotor symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats, as well as changes in bone health. Isoflavones have been investigated as a natural alternative in this context, with clinical data showing modest but consistent efficacy on bone health and vasomotor symptoms in some women.
Why does Menovon combine soy and red clover isoflavones?
Soy provides mainly genistein and daidzein, while red clover offers formononetin and biochanin A. Each source has a different isoflavone profile with different oestrogen receptor binding patterns. Combining both sources in standardised extracts provides a more varied spectrum of active compounds, with a controlled and reproducible concentration in each capsule.
When is it recommended to take Menovon and for how long?
It is recommended to take one capsule a day, preferably with a meal and sufficient liquid. Each pack contains 90 capsules for three months of supplementation. Clinical trials on isoflavones and bone health show more pronounced effects in interventions of at least 12 months. Consistency in the regimen is a determining factor for the benefit of the supplement.
Can all menopausal women take isoflavones such as those in Menovon?
Regular dietary intake of isoflavones is considered safe in the general population according to available data. Women with a history of hormone-dependent cancers should consult their doctor before using isoflavone supplements. The 2025 review notes that doses above 100 mg daily of isoflavones may produce mild gastrointestinal effects and that the safety of high-dose supplementation in this population group has not been fully established.
Does Menovon contain synthetic additives or allergens?
No. Menovon contains no synthetic additives, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, artificial colours or preservatives. It is suitable for people with gluten and lactose intolerance and does not contain genetically modified organisms. The formula is designed for those who prioritise supplementation with naturally sourced ingredients and transparent labelling.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a healthcare professional.
