Today, products containing naturally occurring phytooestrogens (oestrogen from plant source) are being promoted as natura to Hormone Replacement Thera

Phyto-oestrogens are found in soybeans, soy products, chickpeas, lentils, legumes, citrus fruit and linseed. Menopausal supplements made from herbs like Black cohosh, Red clover and Dong quai are currently available. Consumers and patients report that these supplements provide relief from mild menopausal symptoms.

Modern medicine uses HRTs, containing oestrogens, to curb hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings and other symptoms of menopause. Over the long term, HRTs may reduce the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis. However, the use of HRTs is now mired in controversy because research has shown that their use increases the risk of breast cancer.

Human beings have used phyto-oestrogens in folk medicine for thousands of years. In the plant kingdom, these chemicals act as fungicides, deter herbivores, regulate plant hormones and protect plants against ultraviolet radiation. In human beings, they have a weak oestrogen-like effect.

Supplement makers are now promoting isoflavones (the most common group of phyto-oestrogens) to boost the levels of oestrogen in menopausal women. Some of these supplement makers promise dramatic benefits in four to eight weeks; others push the fact that phyto-oestrogens are naturally produced and, therefore, automatically beneficial.

Not a simple matter

Extensive research has identified the two major classes of phyto-oestrogens, lignans and isoflavones, and how they work inside the body. Their biologic actions are extremely complex as they rely on many existing factors within the body to work. A fuller picture is emerging as scientists compare Asian and Western populations.

Asian populations consume relatively larger quantities of phyto-oestrogens. The comparatively low rates in Asian populations of breast, prostate and colon cancers as well as coronary heart disease, suggest that these compounds have protective effects. Current medical evidence does not support the 'panacea status' that some promoters ascribe to these products.

Cautionary notes

Studies do show promising benefits from phyto-oestrogens, however researchers have some concerns about the consumption of large amounts of them, especially with regard to development and fertility. If you are considering the use of these products, discuss your particular circumstances with your pharmacist or doctor. Here are some important interactions that may occur with other medicines that you may be taking:

Black cohosh interacts with oral contraceptives, oestrogen therapy, azathioprine (Imuran), cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neural) and blood pressure medication.

Donq quai interacts with anticoagulants (blood thinners) and daily aspirin.

Soy interacts with the thyroid medicine (levothyroxine). The effect of iron supplements may also be reduced.

Concentrated phyto-oestrogens may interfere with the use of tamoxifen (Novaldex).

Remember, phyto-oestrogens are not miracle agents for the relief of menopause symptoms. The issue surrounding their use is more complicated than it appears on the surface. A naturally produced substance is not automatically harmless.

source;www.jamaica-gleaner.com