We certainly have epidemiological data from Japan, where soy consumption is the highest in the world. And we know that Japanese women have less osteoporosis, less heart disease, less breast cancer, fewer hot flashes and that Japanese men get less prostate cancer. We think that soy is at least partially responsible for this good health, and I certainly encourage my patients to take soy. Stay tuned for more research. We also must look at quality of life issues in assessing hormone replacement therapy.
Many women feel better on estrogen.
They sleep better and suffer fewer hot flashes. Many notice that their skin ages less slowly. And most importantly, you need to reassess your estrogen replacement therapy periodically. This decision is not etched in stone. Your health risks may change, your family history may change, and more data is becoming available.