What are phytoestrogens?

Why phytoestrogens matter

As oestrogen falls around menopause, many women wonder whether these plant compounds can help.

Some studies of soya isoflavones in women around and after menopause found:

• fewer hot flushes
• better sleep
• less vaginal dryness

Early research also hints at benefits for bones and memory, but experts say more research is needed.

Recent studies suggest eating soya does not cause breast cancer, though the question isn't fully settled. Phytoestrogens from a varied diet are generally considered safe.

Phytoestrogens in Indian food

Include phytoestrogen-rich foods as part of normal meals:

• a spoon of roasted alsi in your roti dough or raita
• soya chunks or tofu in a sabzi
• dals and chana
• whole grains

Variety is better than eating soya at every meal.

Check with your doctor:

• If you have, or are at risk of, a hormone-sensitive cancer, talk to your doctor before eating much more of these foods or taking supplements.
• If you take thyroid medicine, ask your doctor how to space soya away from your dose.