Soy, Menopause, Osteoporosis
The hormonal changes that occur during menopause can cause a variety of
symptoms and increase the risk for heart disease and osteoporosis.
Soyfoods, which contain phytoestrogens, are being studied for possible
efficacy in decreasing the negative effects of menopause.
During peri-menopause, women experience fluctuations in estrogen levels.
This can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats,
insomnia and headaches.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is commonly prescribed to help prevent
the negative effects of menopause. However, many women do not want to
take HRT because of the possible increased risk of breast cancer.
Currently intensive research is being carried out to determine whether
soy can provide the same benefits ad HRT but without the risks.
A cross-cultural study of menopause found that women in Japan rarely reported
the symptoms of peri-menopause that are common in the West.
Post -menopausal women also have lower rates of osteoporosis and hear
disease, and a longer life expectancy.
Source: The 2003 Soyfoods Guide, United Soybean Board www.soybean.org.
