Grapes, Soy And Kudzu Blunt Some Menopausal Symptoms

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) used to be the standard treatment to alleviate symptoms of menopause. However, studies have shown that extensive use of HRT is associated with significant adverse effects, including an increased risk of contracting cancer. New studies indicate, however, that polyphenols found in food may have some beneficial effects similar to HRT but without the appreciable adverse effects. In the ongoing Sex and Gender in Cardiovascular-Renal Physiology and Pathophysiology conference, physiologist J. Michael Wyss, of the University of Alabama at Birmingham discusses results from his studies indicating that grapes, soy, and kudzu blunt hypertension, insulin resistance and cognitive decline in animal models of menopause.

According to Dr. Wyss, “It is unlikely that these polyphenols could eventually provide effective stand-alone therapy for post-menopausal women, but in the future they may provide effective adjunct therapy that complements the use of lower doses of traditional pharmaceutical compounds.”

Grapes, I know. Soy, too. But kudzu?!? I have to admit I’ve never heard of them, but apparently, they are being sold as dietary supplements apparently “to regulate alcohol intake and the side effects of alcohol in the body.”