Hot flashes affect three-quarters of women before and after menopause. And around 10% of women experience them for the rest of their lives.

The sudden rush of heat concentrated in the chest, neck, and face can occur up to 10 or more times a day, drenching clothes and sheets in sweat.

But discomfort and disturbed sleep aren't the only problems associated with hot flashes.

They're also a risk factor for cardiovascular problems including heart attack, stroke, and vascular dementia — especially in women who contend with flashes before the age of 60.

A study in the journal Menopause has found a relationship between hot flashes and developing osteoporosis, while one in Neurology says they're associated with brain changes and all types of dementia, especially if you have hot flashes during sleep.

Hormone therapy is now understood to be a smart option for many women. Ask your doctor if it’s a good idea for you, and about taking low-dose aspirin daily to reduce the risk of blood clots.

But wouldn't it be nice to have an easy, nonmedical way to help cool hot flashes down?

Well, a new study — also published in Menopause — reveals that eating a low-fat vegan diet supplemented with half a cup of cooked soybeans a day for 12 weeks reduces severe hot flashes. (Soy contains phytoestrogens.) The participants also took 100 mcg of vitamin B12 daily.

To make a healthy transition to a vegan diet, check out my book "What to Eat When," and explore the tasty vegetable recipes in "The What to Eat When Cookbook."