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and Health
As women age, many of them experience hormonal fluctuations, resultingin menopause. If not managed properly, menopause can be difficult and unpleasant to deal with. One effective way of managing menopause is to consider the role of soy in aiding health and reducing symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and night sweats.
Benefits of Soy
Soy is a superfood that is high in proteins and isoflavones – plant compounds that have similar properties to estrogen. Soy is a natural, plant-based alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) which can be used to help reduce menopause-related symptoms, as it may help to restore balance to the reduced levels of estrogen experienced during menopause. Soy may also help to restore vitality to skin and hair, while aiding with sleep. As well as being beneficial for menopausal women, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, soy is also associated with decrease risks of breast cancer, prostate cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes.
Soy and Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are one of the most common symptoms of menopause and can greatly impact day-to-day life. Studies have shown that the isoflavones in soy can help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. A 2019 study conducted by the University of Haifa found that women who consumed more soy experienced fewer hot flashes than those who consumed limited or no soy.
Making Soy a Part of Your Diet
Women who are looking to mitigate the symptoms of menopause with the aid of soy can look to incorporate soy products into their diet. Some options include tofu, tempeh, miso, edamame, and soy-based drinks. However, for those looking for a more direct approach, supplements are a great way to get all the benefits of soy without having to change their diet.
Conclusion
Utilizing soy as part of a menopause management routine can be beneficial for women experiencing the unpleasant symptoms of menopause. Soy is a natural and plant-based alternative to hormone replacement therapy and can help to ease symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, in addition to conferring many other health benefits. Incorporating soy into your diet can be as simple as adding tofu to a stir fry, or taking a soy-based supplement. The powerful effects of soy make it an ideal choice for women looking to manage their menopause symptoms and revitalize their body and mind.
