However, these patients are still at increased risk of heart disease. Lupus causes inflammation of the heart, resulting in an increased rate of heart attacks and artery disease, even in young patients in their 20s.
Phyto- is from the Greek phyton meaning plant. A phytoestrogen is a naturally-occurring plant nutrient that exerts an estrogen-like action on the body. Scientists have discovered hundreds of phytoestrogens including soybeans, whole grains, seeds (especially flax), nuts (especially walnuts) and many herbs.
Phytoestrogens in Soy Milk. Foods and beverages made from soy contain chemicals called isoflavones. These chemicals have estrogen-like effects on the body, so they are often called phytoestrogens -- that is, estrogen that comes from plants. The isoflavones can bind to estrogen-responsive areas on cells in the reproductive organs, liver, brain and other tissues.