Soy and foods derived from soy have become increasingly popular due to their perceived health benefits. A large body of scientific research has focused on identifying the positive effects on different health conditions of eating soy, including heart disease and certain types of cancer. The results of these studies have produced conflicting results, but there remains a significant consensus that incorporating soy into your diet can offer significant long-term health benefits.
Heart Health
Soy is thought to offer numerous benefits in terms of overall cardiovascular health. According to the Veggie Patch website, foods derived from soy are cholesterol-free, low in saturated fat and high in fiber and protein. In 1999, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the labeling of soy-based foods with information related to their heart health benefits. This approval is based on research suggesting that eating 25 grams of soy protein each day can reduce the risk of heart disease. According to the American Cancer Society, clinical trials suggest that soy can help to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Cancer
Eating soy may also potentially reduce your risk for developing certain types of cancer. According to Vanderbilt University, soy contains several important phytochemicals, including phytate, saponins, phytosterols and isoflavones, which have been linked to the prevention of cancer growth. The American Cancer Society notes that although a number of studies have attempted to link soy to a reduction in breast and prostate cancer, results have been inconclusive.
Menopause
Soy also contains a chemical known as phytoestrogen, which has been studied to determine its impact on reducing the symptoms of menopause. According to Veggie Patch, phytoestrogren can mimic or counter the effects of menopause, making it a suitable alternative to menopausal women who do not or cannot undergo hormone replacement therapy. Clinical studies of the effect of soy capsules on menopausal breast-cancer patients have been inconclusive, according to the American Cancer Society.
Bone Health
Eating soy may reduce your risk for developing osteoporosis. Veggie Patch explains that the same phytoestrogen thought to reduce menopause symptoms is also thought to potentially reduce bone loss. The high plant protein content of soy may also ward off calcium loss compared to diets that are high in animal protein only.
Considerations
If you are considering increasing your daily soy intake, consult your physician to determine if there are any potential health risks in doing so. Some people can develop an allergic reaction to soy products, whose effects may range from mild to life-threatening. The American Cancer Society also cautions that eating too much soy can potentially lead to uncomfortable side effects, such as stomach pain, loose stools and diarrhea.
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