May help alleviate menopause symptoms

Low estrogen levels during menopause cause hot flashes, mood changes, and other symptoms. Isoflavones found in soy resemble estrogen, therefore they could aid with symptoms. A 1/2 cup (86 grams) of soy nuts per day resulted in a 40% reduction in hot flashes, as compared to a comparable diet without soy nuts, in an 8-week trial of 60 older women. An analysis of 17 research on menopausal women found that, when compared to a placebo, ingesting soy isoflavones for 6 weeks to 12 months decreased hot flash severity by over 20%.

Other research, however, presents conflicting findings. There is minimal proof that soy reduces the symptoms of menopause, according to a study of 10 trials. According to research, the effects of soy on estrogen levels and menopausal symptoms vary depending on the specific isoflavone metabolism of each woman.