Soybeans and soy products are often referred to as "phytoestrogens," though they do not raise estrogen levels. In the body, phytoestrogens ("phyto-" means plant) act as weak estrogens that, under some circumstances, compete with or complement the body's stronger estrogens in performing estrogen-related function. Phytoestrogens can behave like the body's estrogens in some ways, but with a fraction of their strength. Therefore, phytoestrogens may actually decrease the "estrogen message" that the body receives. This may be beneficial for women with symptoms related to hormone cycles. Phytoestrogens found in flax, rye, kudzu, and in other legumes have similar properties. These foods nutritionally support hormone detoxification and excretion as well.