AGEs: Do they play a role in hot flashes?

Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are compounds formed when foods, especially animal products, are cooked using high heat under dry conditions. Researchers have theorized that a diet low in AGEs (such as a vegan diet) can reduce hot flashes in postmenopausal women. A new study published in the journal Maturitas asked participants to eat a low-fat, vegan diet for 12 weeks and include a daily serving of soybeans. This group had 88% fewer moderate-to-severe hot flashes than those who continued eating their normal diet. While there are many possible explanations for this benefit, including the isoflavones in soy, these fewer hot flashes may be due, in part, to consuming fewer AGEs on a vegan diet.