Edamame is the Japanese word for young soybeans, which may be boiled in the pods and shelled before eating. The usefulness of edamame for treating hot flashes is debated, but many perimenopausal women claim that edamame provides relief.
Effects
Edamame soybeans contain chemicals that affect the body the same way the hormone estrogen does. During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate severely and edamame may lessen the frequency of hot flashes by balancing hormones.
Dosage
In their book "Menopause Without Medicine," doctors Linda Ojeda and Jeffrey S. Bland recommend consuming 150 to 200 mg of soy per day to treat hot flashes.
Uses
According to a 2003 study conducted at the University of Vienna, eating edamame and other foods that contain plant-derived estrogen can be used as a natural alternative to synthetic hormone replacement therapy.
Considerations
While some studies about the effects of edamame on hot flashes show that it provides significant relief, others suggest that placebos are just as effective.
Other Benefits
In addition to providing relief from hot flashes, eating edamame during perimenopause may help night sweats, improve bone health and regulate insulin.
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