Tempe, Tofu, and Amyloid-β 1-40 Serum Levels in Ovariectomized Rats.

Background: Estrogens have been found to reduce amyloid-β (Aβ) levels, a risk factor associated with dementia. We hypothesized that phytoestrogenic soybean products such as tempe and tofu might show similar effects.

Objective: The aim of this study were to analyze the effect of tempe and tofu flour on Aβ1-40 serum levels in ovariectomized rats.

Comparing the effect of tempe flour and tofu flour consumption on estrogen serum in ovariectomized rats.

Estrogen decreasing during menopause can create problems in the cardiovascular organs, brain, urogental tract, and bone. Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) can be used to increase estrogen levels. However, side-effects including breast cancer may limit their use.

Nutrition research in cognitive impairment/dementia, with a focus on soya and folate.

Observational studies and treatment trials investigating nutrition and cognitive function, with a focus on folate and soya and dementia, were reviewed. Data suggested that effects of folic acid based interventions may only be shown before cognitive decline is evident and/or if people are folate deficient. In older people in Indonesia, Hawai'i and China, tofu, which can contain high levels of phytoestrogens, was found to increase dementia risk.

Tempereversed effects of ovariectomy on brain function in rats: Effects of age and type of soy product.

Backgroud: The aims of this study were to analyze the differences in nutrient content and isoflavones in tempe flour and tofu flour, and to analyze the effect of tempe and tofu flour on cognitive function of female rats after ovariectomy.

Method: Seventy two (72) white female Sprague Dawley strain rats, aged 12 months were used for this study. Before the intervention 52 rats underwent ovariectomy (OVx) and they were grouped into 4 intervention groups: tempe flour (Tp), tofu flour (Tf), estradiol (E2), and casein as a control protein (Cs).

Phytoestrogen consumption and risk for cognitive decline and dementia: With consideration of thyroid status and other possible mediators.

It is predicted that around 20% of the worlds population will be age 60 or above by 2050. Prevalence of cognitive decline and dementia is high in older adults and modifiable dietary factors may be able to reduce risk for these conditions. Phytoestrogens are bioactive plant chemicals found in soy, which have a similarity in structure to natural estradiol (the most abundant circulating estrogen).