Evidence supporting the use of: Isoflavone (unspecified)
For the health condition: Hot Flashes

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Isoflavones, particularly those derived from soy, have been investigated as a treatment for hot flashes, especially in menopausal women. Isoflavones are a class of phytoestrogens—plant-derived compounds with estrogen-like activity. Their use for hot flashes is backed by both traditional use in Asian populations and a growing body of scientific research.

Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have examined the efficacy of isoflavones for reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes. The results are mixed but generally suggest a modest benefit. For example, a 2012 Cochrane review of 43 studies found that phytoestrogens, including isoflavones, may reduce the frequency of hot flashes compared to placebo, but the effect size was small and the quality of evidence was moderate. More recent meta-analyses (e.g., Chen et al., 2015; Taku et al., 2012) also report a reduction in hot flash frequency by about 20-30% compared to placebo, with the greatest benefit seen in women experiencing more severe symptoms.

Isoflavones are believed to work by binding to estrogen receptors, particularly the beta subtype, thereby exerting weak estrogenic effects that may help alleviate vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes. However, individual responses can vary, and not all studies show statistically significant benefits.

In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting the use of isoflavones for hot flashes, though effects are generally modest and not all individuals will respond.

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