What Is a Serving Size of Soybeans for Hot Flashes?
Whether you call them "hot flashes" or "power surges," they are an uncomfortable symptom of menopause. Many women and their doctors agree to limit or avoid the use of hormone replacement therapy to treat hot flashes. Eating soy-based foods can bring you relief.
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History
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Women in Asian cultures, who regularly eat soy-based foods, are less likely to have hot flashes. A Japanese study published in the "American Journal of Epidemiology" concluded that "consumption of soy products is a practical strategy for preventing hot flashes."
Soy Foods
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Soy milk, frozen veggie burgers and edamame (green soy beans) are familiar sources of soy protein. Roasted and salted soy nuts, tofu, and soy-based versions of cheese and ice cream are also found in most large supermarkets.
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Daily Servings
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Monique N. Gilbert, author of "Virtues of Soy: A Practical Health Guide and Cookbook," writes on the Feminist Women's Health Center website that the best way to consume the beneficial nutrients of soy is in food form. "Researchers recommend consuming at least one to two servings a day," Gilbert says. Eating these may be an effective natural alternative to estrogen replacement for relieving the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause.
Serving Sizes
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To get a serving of 9 to 13 g of soy protein, have one veggie burger, 2 cups of soy milk or 1 oz. of roasted and salted soy nuts. Half of a cup of edamame is one serving. A 4 oz. block of tofu, added to stir fries or blended into salad dressings or desserts, is one serving.
Calorie Concerns
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Tofu ice cream is a sweet treat, but take care if you are watching your weight: 1 1/2 cups (630 calories) provides the same amount of soy protein as 1 cup of soy milk at 130 calories.
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References
- Photo Credit Soy beans on green leaf image by Monika 3 Steps Ahead from Fotolia.com
