Insights & Discussion
Hop extract, particularly its component 8-Prenylnaringenin (8-PN), demonstrates potential in alleviating symptoms common in menopause such as osteoporosis, vasomotoric disturbances, and sexual motivation.
The methodology of this research involved identifying the major constituents of hop extract, with a focus on 8-Prenylnaringenin (8-PN) due to its estrogenic qualities. Several in vivo studies were conducted to explore the potential of hop extract and 8-PN in mitigating climacteric symptoms. Clinical studies conducted have mainly centered around menopausal discomforts, still, these studies provided broad results.
In the discussion of the results, it was found that hop extract, and more prominently, 8-PN, show promise in alleviating menopausal symptoms such as osteoporosis, vasomotoric issues, and sexual desire. Although 8-PN primarily activates the estrogen receptor α and presents only slight uterotrophic attributes, it also brings about estrogenic effects on the mammary gland. The results indicate potential application of 8-PN and hop extract in alleviating symptoms commonly associated with menopause.
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The study involved 120 perimenopausal women who consumed 2 liters of a specific bicarbonate-calcium mineral water (Lete) daily for six months. This water was chosen because it is rich in calcium and bicarbonate but low in sodium. The study aimed to determine the impact of this water on bone health and overall metabolism. The participants’ urine and blood serum were analyzed using NMR-based metabolomic procedures. These analyses were conducted to assess the effects of the water not only on calcium metabolism but also on the broader systemic metabolism.
The findings indicated that the Lete water effectively compensated for calcium dysmetabolism and supported bone health and integrity in perimenopausal women. While the study primarily focused on bone metabolism, it also provided insights into the potential system-wide metabolic effects of this specific type of mineral water. This suggests that such water could be a valuable dietary supplement for addressing calcium-related metabolic issues, particularly in perimenopausal women.
Pomegranate can significantly enhance women's health during and after menopause by reducing hot flashes severity and other menopause symptoms.
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In terms of test results, after undergoing the 12-week treatment, the group receiving the combined soy and hop extract saw more considerable improvements in their symptoms compared to the placebo group. They particularly noted notable enhancements in conditions like fatigue, paresthesia, arthralgia, and myalgia, palpitations, and vaginal dryness. Lowered increases in urine N-telopeptide, a biomarker for bone metabolism, were observed in treatment group participants aged 50 and older. Meanwhile, endometrial thickness and hormonal profiles did not display any significant shifts in either group. Importantly, throughout the trial, no harmful side effects or events arose, speaking to the safety of the treatment.
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