[Territorial research on the availability of phytoestrogen rich foods].

BACKGROUND

To verify the availability of foods containing phytoestrogens, the quality of available products, the degree of knowledge of these foods by dealers, the willingness of dealers to give cooperation in preparation of the MENFIS study, a study assessing the efficacy of a phytoestrogen rich diet on the long term effects of menopause.

METHODS

Perspective research by questionnaires carried out in the herbalist's shops of Bari.

RESULTS

For the aims of the study the herbalist's shops resulted in being the most suitable, because they were the most supplied with these products and with natural foods, with a high degree of knowledge of these foods and a helpfulness towards the users, perhaps because of the strong motivation towards this type of diet.

CONCLUSIONS

The easy availability of these products, the good preparation of managers of the herbalist's shops and their good experience is a sound basis for those intending to start dietary programs with phytoestrogen rich foods.