Improving the Quality of Life among Postmenopausal Women in a Resource-limited Setting: A Review of Possible Role of Phytoestrogens

Abstract

Background: Menopause is often accompanied by deleterious and degenerative health effects, such as arteriosclerosis, osteoporosis and atrophic changes the skin, suggesting that acceleration of aging is triggered by a lack of estrogen. This review seeks to discuss the possible use of phytoestrogens in combating the adverse health consequences associated with menopause.

Methods: Relevant literature from electronic search engines such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, and African Journals Online (AJOL) regarding the use of phytoestrogen to combat complications of menopause was obtained and reviewed.  Keywords used in the search were combined which include Postmenopausal Women, Quality of Life, Resource-Limited Setting" OR "Low-Income Country and Health Outcomes. Studies were selected based on the pre-defined criteria, structured around the Population, concept and context.

Results: Studies have indicated a growing demand for alternative treatments for the symptoms and pathological processes associated with menopause. Research has supported the use of natural antioxidants such as soy isoflavones, extracts of Curcuma longa, β-carotene, and honey that are rich in phytoestrogens to ameliorate or prevent antioxidant deficiency associated with menopause.  Natural phytoestrogens protect mitochondria against premature oxidative damage with loss of adenosine triphosphate synthesis and cellular functions. The consumed phytoestrogens act as sources of estrogen and antioxidants needed to prevent menopause-associated pathologies.

Conclusion: Natural phytoestrogens could be considered an alternative option for the management of menopause associated symptoms and pathologies in postmenopausal women in a resource-limited setting.