What is methoxyisoflavone? Why do we need it?
Methoxyisoflavone is a chemical substance that belongs to the flavonoid family. Flavonoids are water-soluble plant pigments, some of which are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties; others help strengthen the immune system and promote the growth of connective tissues.
Methoxyisoflavone is believed to help increase athletic performance. Animal studies have shown that methoxyisoflavone has anabolic properties (i.e., it helps to build muscle and bone), without any of the side-effects reported with androgenic hormones. Other studies have shown that a daily dose of methoxyisoflavone can reduce body fat. However, the results of these studies have yet to be conducted in a controlled, double-blind setting.
How much methoxyisoflavone should I take?
Because methoxyisoflavone is not an essential nutrient, recommended daily allowances have yet to be established. However, studies that have examined methoxyisoflavone in athletes have used daily doses of 800 milligrams.
What forms of methoxyisoflavone are available?
Substances similar to methoxyisoflavone have been found in soybeans and other plant foods. However, methoxyisoflavone does not appear to occur naturally. It is available as a dietary supplement, usually in tablet or capsule form.
What can happen if I take too much methoxyisoflavone? Are there any interactions I should be aware of? What precautions should I take?
Because of the relatively low number of studies on methoxyisoflavone, side-effects associated with the supplement have yet to be investigated thoroughly. However, other substances that have anabolic effects may cause unwanted side-effects, ranging from acne and hair loss to reduced levels of HDL cholesterol in the blood. As such, methoxyisoflavone should only be taken under the supervision of a licensed health care provider.
As of this writing, there are no well-known drug interactions associated with methoxyisoflavone. As always, make sure to consult with a licensed health care provider before taking methoxyisoflavone or any other herbal remedy or dietary supplement.
References
- Incledon T, Gammeren DC, Antonio JA. The effects of 5-methylisoflavone on body composition and performance in college-aged men. Med Sci Sports Exer 2001;33(5 sippl):S338.
- Khouri HE, Tahara S, Ibrahim RK. Partial purification, characterization, and kinetic analysis of isoflavone 5-O-methyltransferase from yellow lupin roots. Arch Biochem Biophys May 1, 1988;262(2):592-8.
- Kim HK, Jang YH, Baek IS, et al. Polymorphism and expression of isoflavone synthase genes from soybean cultivars. Mol Cells February 28, 2005;19(1):67-73.
- Langat-Thoruwa C, Song TT, Hu J, et al. A simple synthesis of 7,4'-dihydroxy-6-methoxyisoflavone, glycitein, the third soybean isoflavone. J Nat Prod Jan 2003;66(1):149-51.
- Seeger M, Gonzalez M, Camara B, et al. Biotransformation of natural and synthetic isoflavonoids by two recombinant microbial enzymes. Appl Environ Microbiol September 2003;69(9):5045-50.