Osteoporosis and its treatment using phytoestrogens of cowpeas

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a worldwide threat. It occurs mostly in women than in men due to menopausal loss of estrogen. Hence there will be reduced levels of estrogen in the body. This leads to reduced bone formation and increased bone reabsorption. Various synthetic drugs like bisphosphonates, SERM’s, teriparatide and hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) are given for the treatment of osteoporosis. However prolonged use of these drugs has not shown significant effects This study is based on postmenopausal stage where there is loss of estrogen in women and the treatment goal is to restore the function of estrogen by using natural means. The purpose of the study is to determine efficacy of cowpeas in treatment of osteoporosis as it is known to be a source of isoflavones in addition to vitamin D Phytoestrogens are compounds of leguminous plants mostly. Phytoestrogens enact as estrogen molecules and are structurally similar to E2. Consumption of cowpeas may show significant increase in BDM bone volume.