Ancient Korean Soybean Paste Offers Relief for Menopause Symptoms
Reported by Deeksha
A recent study sheds light on the power of an ancient Korean remedy – soybean paste, also known as doenjang – in easing menopausal discomfort. Unlike its commercially produced counterpart, traditional doenjang emerges as the hero, proving more effective in soothing menopause symptoms.
Dating back over 2,000 years, doenjang holds a prestigious position among Asia’s fermented foods. Unlike miso, its Japanese counterpart, doenjang boasts a rich history and a distinct tangy flavor profile derived from unpeeled soybeans fermenting for up to two years.
The study, part of a broader exploration into the gut’s relationship with fermented foods, aimed to uncover whether higher bacterial content in doenjang equated to better results. Surprisingly, the sample with the least beneficial bacteria exhibited the most potent symptom relief.
Researchers analyzed three types of doenjang: two traditional variants with varying levels of beneficial microbes and one commercially produced option enriched with microbes. While all varieties showed a decrease in menopausal symptoms, the traditional doenjang with the lowest microbial count emerged as the most effective.
The findings spotlight the fundamental differences between traditional and commercial doenjang. Traditional varieties, enriched with beneficial fungi and microorganisms, undergo a longer fermentation process, while commercial versions rely on a briefer maturation period based on Koji.
Beyond menopause relief, the study underscores the broader health benefits of fermented foods. While more research is needed to conclusively link fermented foods to menopausal relief, incorporating a diverse range of these foods into one’s diet may offer comprehensive health benefits.
Though the study’s outcomes are promising, it’s essential to consider its limitations. Factors like the absence of a control group, short duration, and small sample size may have influenced the results. Additionally, participants’ lifestyle choices and initial symptom severity could have impacted the study’s findings.
In essence, while traditional doenjang shows promise in alleviating menopause symptoms, further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits.
