Features - HRT Cakes on the Menu

Linda Kearns has developed an intriguing alternative to the traditional hormone replacement therapy drugs used to help women cope with the menopause - an HRT cake.

An HRT cake might sound unlikely, but ingredients such as seeds and soya are rich in phytoestrogens - natural plant chemicals which mimic female hormones.

The cake is made from soya flour, soya milk, pumpkin seeds, raisins, linseeds, sesame seeds, nuts of any kind and extra dried fruit or apple, and spices.

In the UK, two million women take HRT, approximately one in five of those going through the menopause. However, it is estimated that there are thousands of women who have had problems with HRT. Symptoms range from anxiety and depression to blood clots and even strokes.

Dr Marilyn Glenville, author of the book, Natural Alternatives to HRT, said: "It is interesting that Linda is using ingredients that have been tested scientifically.

"It may work and women have nothing to lose by trying it. Some studies have shown that just taking soya over a two-week period has allievated hot flushes."

The medical establishment says there is no scientific evidence that HRT cakes work.

For the full story go to BBC News

Page updated: 20February 2009