October 5, 2000 – Two studies released at an Endocrine Society conference in Toronto, Canada in the summer of 2000 show that red clover may reduce bone loss associated with menopause and relieve associated symptoms benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The first study was conducted by Dr Charlotte Atkinson of the MRC Human Nutrition Unit in Cambridge (UK). The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study brought together 107 women in pre, peri and postmenopause. It aimed to measure the effects of Promensil, a dietary supplement composed of natural isoflavones extracted from red clover, on changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC). According to the researchers, the supplement did not stop the decrease in BMD or CMO, but it slowed the loss of BMD by about 49% and the loss of CMO from the spine by 35%. No effect was observed on BMD and CMO of the hip.
The second study, led by University of Chicago urologist Dr. Glenn Gerber, brought together 35 men aged 50 to 75 with BPH who took one or two tablets daily for three months of Trinovin, a supplement containing 40 mg of isoflavones extracted from red clover.
At the end of treatment, their prostatism symptom index (IPSS) had decreased on average by 23%, the frequency of nighttime urination by 27% and urine output improved by 9.8%. In contrast, the extract had no effect on prostate specific antigens (PSA), prostate size and blood chemistry. No difference in effect was observed between the two strengths, suggesting that 40 mg is sufficient.
HealthPassport.net
Atkinson C, Compston JE, Robins SP, Bingham SA. The effects of isoflavone phytoestrogens on bone; preliminary results from a large randomized controlled trial. The Endocrine Society’s 82nd Annual Meeting, Toronto, Canada June 21-24, 2000: Abstract 196.
Gerber G, Lowe FC, Spigelman S. The use of a standardized extract of red clover isoflavones for the alleviation of BPH symptoms. The Endocrine Society’s 82nd Annual Meeting, Toronto, Canada June 21-24, 2000: Abstract 2359.
At the time of writing, both studies have yet to be published.
