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Hot flashes affect three-quarters of women before and after menopause -- and somewhere around 10% of women experience them for the rest of their lives. The sudden rush of heat concentrated in the chest, neck and face can occur up to 10 or more times a day, drenching clothes and sheets. But discomfort and disturbed sleep aren't the only problems associated with hot flashes.

They're also a risk factor for cardiovascular problems -- heart attack, stroke and vascular dementia -- especially in women who contend with flashes before the age of 60. And a study in the journal Menopause found a relationship to developing osteoporosis, while one in Neurology says they're associated with brain changes and all types of dementia, especially if you have hot flashes during sleep.

Hormone therapy is now understood to be a smart option for many women (ask your doctor if it is a good idea for you -- and about taking a low-dose aspirin daily to reduce the risk of blood clots). But wouldn't it be nice to have an easy, non-medical way to help cool hot flashes down?

Well, a new study, also in the journal Menopause, reveals that eating a low-fat vegan diet, supplemented with half a cup of cooked soybeans a day for 12 weeks reduces severe hot flashes. (Soy contain phytoestrogens.) The participants also took 100 micrograms of B12 daily.

To make a healthy transition to a vegan diet, check out my book "What to Eat When" and explore the tasty vegetable recipes in "The What to Eat When Cookbook."

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.

(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.