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Perimenopause Naturally: An Integrative Medicine Approach by Tori Hudson, N.D. ISOFLAVONES Soy Isoflavones Several studies have now been done on the effect of soy isoflavones on vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, in menopausal women. Six published studies report improvements in vasomotor symptoms from soy protein rich in isoflavones;[3] four of the studies used soy protein or soy foods, while 2 used soy extracts. Criticisms of these studies have been that relatively small numbers of women were involved, most studies were short term (not more than 12 weeks), not all were double blind clinical trials, and benefits did not exceed a 45% reduction in symptoms. Research results published in 2000-2001 have been less promising. A soy product studied in breast cancer patients with hot flashes concluded that soy did not alleviate hot flashes.[4] However, a majority of the women (ages 18 to 50+) were on tamoxifen (a synthetic SERM used to prevent recurrence of cancer), although there was no clear difference in the effect of soy on hot flashes in either group. Perhaps the most glaring fault of the study was the lack of information provided about who was postmenopausal versus premenopausal and who had experienced natural menopause, chemotherapy-induced menopause or surgical menopause. A 2001 study on soy isoflavones and vasomotor symptoms also reported disappointing results.[5] Unlike the previous 6 studies which followed women for 12 weeks or less, this study continued for 24 weeks. Researchers found that symptoms generally declined in all 3 treatment groups during the first 12 weeks but either increased or showed no change during the last 12 weeks. It is important to consider whether the seemingly positive outcome in the soy groups in the earlier studies was merely due to the short duration of the study period. Based on these overall results, soy isoflavones in the treatment of vasomotor symptoms may not provide the relief we have come to hope for. Future studies may need to develop new methods or tools for collecting symptom data that are either more accurate, and/or extend over at least 24 weeks. Data from animal and human studies suggest that increasing the soy foods in the diet may help regulate the menstrual cycle, stabilize bone density, and reduce cholesterol.[6] More research in this area needs to be done. Perimenopause: signs and symptoms Individual assessments and recommendations Principles of naturopathic medicine Natural therapies for perimenopause: the scientific facts SOURCES This article first appeared in A Friend Indeed (Jan/Feb 2002), the newsletter for women in menopause and midlife. Notes Endnotes Yahoo! Groups Pagan Promotions Green Witch Garden <<<< Home >>>> |
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