Soybeans are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in protein, amino acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an attractive dietary choice. Recent studies have highlighted their significant role in managing menopausal symptoms.
Scientifically known as glycine max, soybeans are renowned for their high isoflavone content, which has the potential to manage and relieve menopausal issues.
Findings have shown that Isoflavones, phytoestrogens that mimic oestrogen in the body, are abundant in soybeans. Nutritionists have also validated that soybeans’ rich nutritional content and bioactive compounds underscore their importance in one’s diet, especially for women seeking natural relief from menopause challenges.
In a comprehensive review conducted by Yulia Fitri, and published in the Journal of Science Midwifery, the impact of soybean diet on hot flushes was analysed on over 1,700 women.
The analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in the frequency and severity of hot flushes among women who consumed soy products. Specifically, women with an initial frequency of five or more hot flushes per day experienced a notable reduction of approximately 5 per cent in symptoms for each additional hot flush initially reported.
Himanshi Khatri of Vivekananda Global University Jaipur and Sandeep singh of Jaipur National University refer to menopause as the cessation of menstruation, which is associated with various symptoms, including hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, typically occurring around age 51.
According to their review,these symptoms result from the body’s decreased production of oestrogen and can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has been effective in mitigating these symptoms but carries risks such as increased incidences of breast cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
However, a study led by James Anderson showed that soy protein intake can help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease.
In Nigeria, soybeans are majorly cultivated in the Middle Belt region and are used in various forms, including cooking oil, soya milk, soy powder, or made into a paste added to infants’ and children’s diets.
Including soybeans in one’s diet can offer multiple health benefits, particularly for menopausal women looking for natural ways to ease their symptoms. This aligns with the broader recognition of soybeans as a nutritional powerhouse, underscoring their importance in a balanced diet.
Further studies are encouraged to fully understand the long-term benefits and potential risks of high soy consumption.
