Phytoestrogens and Memory Decline in Menopause
Phytoestrogens and Memory Decline in Menopause
The purpose of this study is to investigate whether soy-derived phytoestrogens taken as
 dietary supplements improve memory function in postmenopausal women who have experienced
 early memory decline.
Accumulating data has indicated that estrogens mediate enhancing effects on cognition and
 mood and may play a prophylactic role against age- and disease-related cognitive-cerebral
 decline. Phytoestrogens are plant-derived substances that have demonstrated estrogenic
 activity, but there is little prospective research regarding their effects on mental
 function. Mental health practitioners generally do not prescribe phytoestrogens. However,
 many women experiencing peri- and post-menopausal symptoms use marketed phytoestrogens under
 the perception of general health benefits, including presumably enhanced mental function. The
 purpose of this study is to develop preliminary data regarding the efficacy of isoflavone
 phytoestrogens in improving cognitive function in late middle-aged and elderly postmenopausal
 women with symptoms of memory impairment.

 Participants in this study will be randomized to receive either isoflavone supplementation or
 placebo. The study will last for 16 weeks, during which participants will take the supplement
 pill or placebo three times a day. Participants will be assessed at study entry and at Week
 16 for changes in basal cortisol levels, mood, and neuropsychological measures of executive
 function ability and episodic memory.
Inclusion Criteria

 -  Postmenopausal women

 -  Mild memory or cognitive decline that does not meet the criteria for probable dementia

 Exlcusion Criteria

 -  Hormone replacement therapy within 2 months prior to study entry

 -  Psychiatric medications within 30 days prior to study entry