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Published on: August 13, 2019
Phytoestrogens for menopausal symptoms: a review
1School of Women and Children's Health, University of NSW, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia. j.eden@unsw.edu.au
Maturitas
|April 21, 2012
Summary
Isoflavones, compounds found in soy, do not effectively treat menopausal hot flashes compared to placebo. However, a diet rich in isoflavones may reduce the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers.
Area of Science:
- Phytoestrogens and Women's Health
- Nutritional Science
- Menopause Management
Background:
- Isoflavones are plant-derived compounds with estrogen-like effects.
- Menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, significantly impact women's quality of life.
- Dietary intake of isoflavones is common in many cultures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of isoflavones in alleviating menopausal symptoms.
- To review available safety data regarding isoflavone consumption.
- To synthesize evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Primo Central Index.
- Prioritization of systematic reviews and meta-analyses for evidence synthesis.
- Analysis of clinical trial data on isoflavone efficacy and safety.
Main Results:
- Current evidence indicates isoflavones are not superior to placebo for reducing vasomotor symptoms of menopause.
- Long-term safety data suggest a potential inverse association between high dietary isoflavone intake and endometrial/ovarian cancer risk.
- No significant adverse effects were highlighted in the reviewed studies.
Conclusions:
- Isoflavones are not recommended as a treatment for menopausal hot flashes.
- Further research may be warranted to explore the long-term health benefits and optimal use of isoflavones.
- Dietary isoflavones may play a role in cancer prevention for postmenopausal women.
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