Introduction: The goals of this study were evaluating the changes in menopausal symptoms in response to soya protein supplementation in postmenopausal women living in Orumieh City Iran.

Methods: In this randomized, double- blind, Placebo- controlled trial study, the effect of 20- grams daily soya protein supplements was surveyed in 80 healthy postmenopausal women reporting vasomotor symptoms at base line. They were classified randomly into case group (n=40) and control group (n=40). The control group consumed a daily 20-g of placebo. The menopausal Kupperman index was used to assess changes in menopausal symptoms at base line and after 4, 8 and 12 weeks of intervention.

Results: The epidemiologic as well as clinical characteristics of age education, social status, use of nicotine, BMI, blood pressure and diabetes were similar in both groups. In the first visit, symptoms were similar between placebo and soya protein groups (P= 0.385). The data showed a decrease in menopausal symptoms (P= 0.000 paired t test, two paired) between base line and soya protein group. In addition, ANOVA test showed a decrease in menopausal symptoms, between case and placebo groups (F= 8/69
P= 0.004).

Conclusion: This study suggests that 20- grams daily supplement of soya protein may be a safe and effective alternative therapy for menopausal symptoms.

Hakim Research Journal 2009 11(4): 16- 20.