Menopause is a natural phenomenon among women which literally means cessation of menstruation. This is a result from the loss of estrogen production by the follicles of the ovaries. At about the age of 45, ovarian follicles, which are responsible for the production of the female reproductive hormones, starts to degenerate. This change could lead to the reduction of functional ovarian follicles. Thus, the production of estrogen also drops. Estrogen is important to the body because it promotes the development of the female secondary characteristics and has many other health benefits. Primarily, estrogen is a reproductive hormone. However, it also plays a key role in maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis. It also increases the production of proteins by the liver, aids in proper coagulation and increases the levels of HDL.

Generally, this life – changing event usually occurs around 45 to 55 years old, but may occur earlier. This alteration in the usual levels of estrogen can markedly result in some physiological changes. Studies show that about 75% of all women experience hot flashes and night sweats. Some women may also become more irritable and experience episodes of depression. Women on their menopausal stage also have a higher tendency of suffering from back and joint pain. Muscle cramps similar to that during menstruation may still be common. Nevertheless, before a woman completely achieves menopause, she may experience heavy and painful bleeding associated with general body weakness. For these unwanted changes, doctors often advise small doses of the female reproductive hormone estrogen or, more commonly, in combination with progesterone.

Fortunately, estrogen replacement can be done naturally. This natural source of estrogen comes from the chemical compound in plants known as phytoestrogens. Studies demonstrate that when phytoestrogens are taken and absorbed, they bind to estrogen receptor sites and may work similarly with the estrogen produced by the ovaries. However, these plant estrogens are undeniably weaker than the human estrogen. This type of estrogen is also structurally alike with the estrogen produced naturally by the body.

Almost for half a century, estrogen was employed as the primary component of hormonal replacement therapy to provide relief of menopausal symptoms or hormone supplement after a hysterectomy. Chemically, phytoestrogens come in two classifications namely the isoflavones and the lignans. Isoflavones are estrogens from soy beans while lignans are those found in linseed, grains and vegetables. Phytoestrogens also come in supplements in the form of tablet and creams. The richest source of phytoestrogens is soy beans. A 90 mL of tofu consists about 23 milligrams of isoflavones and about a handful of peanuts has about 10 milligrams. Other sources of phytoestrogens also include black cohosh, red clover, and flaxseed and dong quai. These plants have similar concentration of phytoestrogens with that of soy beans.

Phytoestrogens are relatively safe and effective as hormonal replacement to treat menopausal symptoms. However, studies show that it can cause interference with the effects of tamoxifen, an anti – breast cancer drug. Therefore, it must not be used by individuals who have had breast cancer or undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Experts strongly suggest that before starting this supplementation, seek medical advice first to review your medical history and recognize any drug to drug interactions.

You can find phytoestrogen supplements at your local or internet vitamin store. Always choose name brands like Solaray to ensure quality and purity of the product you buy for better health.

Author Bio: If you are experiencing hot flashes, give Phytoestrogen a try risk free at VitaNet ®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Estrogen Replacement, Phytoestrogen, Estrogen Alternative, Black Cohosh, Red Clover