Hot Flashes Women living in Asian countries experience hot flashes less often than their counterparts in the West, suggesting that a high soy intake might protect against this menopausal symptom. Studies examining soy s effectiveness in easing hot flashes, however, have yielded mixed results. Some earlier research had suggested that high soy intake decreased the frequency and severity of hot flashes. Eating soy foods may be a better bet for those with hot flashes. The weakened bones of osteoporosis sufferers have been linked to declining estrogen levels after menopause, and researchers are trying to determine whether soy phytoestrogens might help prevent this disorder.
Several studies indicate that soy isoflavones can help conserve bone in animals.
Data on the effect of natural isoflavones on osteoporosis are limited but suggest the compounds can help reduce bone loss caused by estrogen deficiency. In addition, ipriflavone, a synthetic isoflavone, appears to help prevent bone loss in postmenopausal women. They believe that it s impossible to overdose on isoflavones by eating these foods. According to Dr. Cline, strong evidence indicates that there s more of a benefit from the whole food than from isolated phytoestrogens. Recent reports suggest that other soy components, not just isoflavones, have an anticancer effect.