I see lots of menopausal women in my clinic….& they often ask…is soy ok for me??? This is a simple answer of YES – as a ‘real’ FOOD, not generally a supplement. It’s all about….BALANCE (my favourite word!!)
Edamame (soybeans) are a phyto-oestrogenic food rich in isoflavones. These are compounds that have a weak oestrogenic effect & bind to oestrogen receptors in the body. Including these as part of a balanced diet may help reduce menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes & vaginal dryness, & may even protect you from breast & ovarian cancers.
Soy beans are full of B-vitamins & are particularly rich in choline – needed for brain function & also maintains the myelin sheath which protects our nerve cells. They are jam packed with amino acids….(the building blocks for protein), iron, calcium & Omega 3 EFA’s making them perfect for vegetarians. Your best choice is to buy organic soybeans when you can so you know they’re not genetically modified….& enjoying in moderation.
Ingredients:
- x1 tin organic chick peas
- 1/2C shelled organic edamame beans
- 1C baby spinach
- Juice 1/2 lemon
- 2Tbsp olive oil
- x1 clove garlic
- 2 heaped Tbsp tahini
- 1/2tsp cumin
- handful of parsley…& any other herbs you like!
- pinch sea salt
- 1/4C water
- top with sesame seeds
Method:
- Place all ingredients except sesame seeds into food processor & blend till smooth.
- Add a little more water if necessary.
- Top with sesame seeds & enjoy with veggie sticks.
Recipe by Lisa Guy, naturopath.
