Rich in proteins, low in carbohydrates, and thought to possess estrogen-like properties, soy is one of the most popular foods for the treatment of menopause in women. But with so many soy products out there, it can be difficult to decide on the best ways to introduce more soy into your diet. Keep reading for some tips on using soy to fight menopause.
Use Soy Milk
If your recipe calls for a cup of milk, try using soy milk instead. Soy milk carries a distinctive taste that many women find preferable to the dairy variety. It may add the dash of flavor and healthfulness, that your recipe needs.
Soy Meat Substitutes
They are often the source of derision in the West, but consider the fact that soy meat substitutes are the main source of protein in cuisines around the world. Insert these products into your chicken and beef-based recipes, and you may be pleasantly surprised by the results. You can also expand your horizons by incorporating Asian tofu recipes into your cooking repertoire.
Use Soy Flour
Making bread? Chances are, you have not yet tried soy-based flour. Use guar gum or xanthan gum to replace the wheat glutens and enjoy the unique and healthy flavors that emerge from your oven.
Grill with Soy
Soy burgers, soy breakfast links, and even soy steaks have all increased in quality in recent years, and many women prefer them to fattier and greasier alternatives. Pick up some soy burgers for your next cookout. You may just like them.
Cook with Soy Oil and Butter
Frying up some eggs? Putting some soy oil or butter in the pan can add some new flavors to an old staple and help you relieve your menopause symptoms. Look on the ingredients label of oil and margarine products to find out if they contain soy
As you can see, incorporating soy into your diet isn't difficult. Following these cooking tips can help you feel healthier and relieve many of your menopausal symptoms in the process. Of course, if your symptoms are severe and disrupting your daily life, it is important to consult with a medical professional about your treatment options.
Follow the links below to learn more about other treatments for menopause.
Sources
- BMJ Group. "Menopause: What is it?" Patient Leaflet. 2007.
- Hopkins, Virginia. Lee, John R. M.D. What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause. New York: Warner Books Inc., 1996.
- Love, Susan M.D. Menopause and Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.
- Martin, Raquel. The Estrogen Alternative. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 2000.