Soy consumption for reduction of menopausal symptoms.
OBJECTIVE
To review current research on the effects of soy consumption on menopausal symptoms.


METHODS
To review results of recent meta-analyses and individual clinical trials.


RESULTS
One recent meta-analysis reported that isoflavone supplementation was associated with a 34% reduction in hot flashes, with increased efficacy as the baseline number of flashes and isoflavone dose increased. A second review concluded that consumption of at least 15 mg genistein, rather than total isoflavones, is responsible for the reduction in symptoms. Results of these two reviews are supported by most subsequent randomized controlled trials.


CONCLUSIONS
Consumption of 30 mg/day of soy isoflavones (or at least 15 mg genistein) reduces hot flashes by up to 50 %. This total reduction includes that provided by "the placebo effect". The greatest benefit may be realized when the isoflavone-rich food or supplement is taken in divided doses by subjects who experience at least four hot flashes/day.
Kurzer
M S
MS
Department of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, 1334 Eckles Avenue, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55108, USA. mkurzer@umn.edu
D005260:Female; D019833:Genistein / Q000008:administration & dosage; D019584:Hot Flashes / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D013025:Glycine max
D019833:Genistein