Zinc and genistein together may help prevent age-related
bone loss.
Several factors lead to the decrease of bone with aging; some of this
decrease may be prevented by pharmacological and dietary intervention.
A recent study demonstrated a direct stimulatory effect of genistein
on bone formation in an in vitro tissue system. Genistein is
a naturally occurring isoflavonoid phytoestrogen found in Fabaceae plants,
such as soy and red clover. Zinc, an essential trace element, has also
been shown to enhance bone formation and inhibit bone resorption, both
in vitro and in vivo. The present study investigated the
relationship between genistein and zinc and the effects of this combination
on bone metabolism of elderly female rats. These researchers found that
the isoflavonoid effect was enhanced by zinc; the combination may have
a potent role in bone loss prevention.Gao Y and Yamaguchi M., "Zinc
enhancement of genistein's anabolic effect on bone components in elderly
female rats."
Gen. Pharmac. 1998; 31(2):199-202.
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