Expert: Walter Hintz - 7/26/2005

Question
Dear Walter, recently I saw a TV program claiming that based on Dr. Adlercreutz's experiments on soy isoflavones, that the aglycone form of soy isoflavones can reactivate the growth plates in our bones, and thus enabling adults under the age under 45 grow tall again.  Is this really true?  Your help would be really appreciated. ^^

Answer
Hi Ron;
I know these compounds have been used in some therapies treating menopause but reactivating growth plates? Was this tv program reporting studies done at a reputable medical institute? I am extremely skeptical about any medical claims made on TV ads and programs.  I think studies have been done on mice so if you are a mouse it might work. I haven't seen this ad but I bet it costs a bundle.
Ask a medical doctor or pediatrician about this.  I believe that after puberty growth plate activity comes to an end.