The soybean has been a source of food for more than 5,000 years. Soy, a source of high-quality protein, is found in vegeterian products such as tofu, tempeh, soymilk, soy sauce and miso. Processed soy is used in meat substitutes, including veggie burgers and soy hotdogs and is often found in breads, cereal and meat products. Soy should not be used as the sole source of medical treatment for any illness or disease.
Cancer
Soy consumed from an early age may help reduce the risk of breast cancer. A study conducted by the Department of Preventive Medicine at the Keck School of Medicine and published in the January 2008 edition of the "British Journal of Cancer" reported that Asians who consumed large quantities of soy showed a decreased risk of breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, some laboratory and animal experiments have shown soy to reduce the risk of certain cancers, including prostate, breast and ovarian cancer. Randomized clinical trials are needed to validate these results in humans.
Menopause
The isoflavones found in soy may help reduce night sweats and hot flashes in menopausal women. Isoflavones are plant compounds similar to the reproductive hormone estrogen. Phytoestrogens bind to estrogen receptors in the body and can increase or decrease the function and effects of estrogen. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that postmenopausal women who consumed 20 to 60 g of soy protein per day had fewer menopausal symptoms. Additional clinical research is needed.
Bone Health
A study conducted at the School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, and published in 2004, found that soy isoflavones generally reduced bone loss in postmenopausal women. The study also reports that Asian populations, who consume larger quantities of soy than Americans, have higher bone mineral density than populations who consume smaller amounts of soy. Increased bone mineral density decreases the risk of osteoporosis. Using soy in place of osteoporosis medications is not recommended; however, postmenopausal women who are concerned about bone health can incorporate more soy into their diets to increase bone health.
Cholesterol
Soy may help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Lowering LDL cholesterol decreases the risk of heart disease. Eating soy protein instead of meat and other animal proteins, along with a diet low in saturated fat, may help reduce total cholesterol levels and blood pressure, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Weight
Eating soy as part of a healthy diet can increase weight loss and reduce the risk of obesity. Soy offers the body a variety of nutrients. Soy provides protein, B vitamins, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. The whole soybean based foods, like tofu and tempeh, provide the richest source of protein and nutrients. Soy, consumed as a healthy alternative to animal products, is low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
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