PMS Bread

We, as women are blessed to live such a powerful, magical life, filled with moments of pure joy and sad hardships that can create an emotional wreak of nerves and sanity. Our menstrual cycle is nothing but a hairy ride through decades of changes, childbirth, and menopause, all being controlled by hormones.
Soy has been noted and approved to help ease hormonal symptoms of PMS and menopause without related problems that are associated with the more modern day approach. Soy contains valuable protein and isoflavones, is low in fat and cholesterol free. It acts as a natural and mild estrogen agent.
After turning 40, I noticed little changes that my body was trying to get used too, like shaving less often, harder to lose weight, mood swings and emotions gone wild. I sampled some soy nuts in a health food store and found them to be equal to real nuts, both in taste and being addictive.
Next, I bought some soy milk and started making my own smoothies with yogurt, brewers yeast, flax seeds and fruit. I was hooked! I noticed a tremendous amount of energy and calmness.
Being a bread maker, I had to experiment once again and incorporate soy into one of my favorite comfort foods, homemade bread. This bread recipe is simple and could very well replace the old stand by, especially during that one week a month when needed. It does tend to brown faster, so keep an eye on it. All soy products can be found anywhere now, and you can add your favorite herbs, nuts or fruit.
PMS Bread
2 c. soy flour
2 c. whole wheat flour
1 c. quick oats
2 packages active dry yeast
1 t. salt
1 c. warm water
1 c. soy milk
½ c. honey
1/3 c. olive oil
2 eggs, beaten
In mixing bowl, combine flours, oats, yeast and salt. Stir in warm water, milk, honey and oil. Blend till smooth, add eggs. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead till elastic. Place in greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in warm place till doubled, about one hour. Punch down dough and shape into one or two loaves. Place in greased pans and let rise again till doubled. Bake at 375 for 40-50 min. till golden brown. Cool before cutting.
PMS and menopause are apart of our lives, but by taking care of our bodies, minds, souls and heart, we can live a long, happy and sane life.