How Soy Helps Reduce Hot Flashes: What Every Woman Should Know
Hot flashes are one of the most common symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause. In fact, up to 80% of women in North America report hot flashes at some point. Are you one of them?
Hot flashes and night sweats occur due to a process called vasodilation, which happens when tiny blood vessels suddenly widen. This rapid opening sends heat toward the surface of the skin, creating that familiar rush of warmth, flushing, and sweating.
Interestingly, in Japan, hot flashes were once considered rare — until the Standard American Diet (SAD) became more common. As the Japanese diet shifted toward more animal protein, dairy, and processed foods, hot flashes increased among women. Traditionally, Japanese women have consumed more soybeans, especially in whole-food forms like edamame.
The Science Behind Soy and Hot Flash Relief
Soybeans contain natural plant compounds called isoflavones. One of these isoflavones, daidzein, is particularly important in menopause symptom relief.
Here’s how it works:
- Soy contains daidzein, which has mild estrogen-like effects.
- Gut bacteria convert daidzein into a compound called equol.
- Equol has been shown to be highly effective in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes.
However, not everyone produces equol — and this is where diet becomes extremely important.
Why Your Diet Matters
Your ability to convert daidzein into equol depends heavily on your gut microbiome — the bacteria in your digestive system.
Before you go out and purchase your bag of edamame, you need to first check that your dietary choices support your gut bacteria.
Are you ready to take the next steps to uncover the root cause of ongoing symptoms? Consider working with me. I am here to guide you and create a personalized dietary and lifestyle plan based on your unique needs.