Consuming soybeans and other soy products such as tofu, tempeh, soy milk, soy nuts, soy flour, veggie burgers or soy supplements may provide health benefits for both men and women. However soy isoflavones, compounds found in soy products, may provide certain health benefits specific to women.
The Basics
Isoflavones found in soybeans, soy products and soy supplements are similar to the female hormone estrogen, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM. However, it's important to note that not all soy supplements contain the isoflavone component of soy.
Benefits
Consuming soy on a daily basis has been shown to affect cholesterol levels in women. According to NCCAM, soy has been shown to help lower cholesterol, specifically low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, cholesterol levels in both men and women. The American Diabetes Association also notes that using soy products to replace foods high in saturated fat can help lower cholesterol levels.
Considerations
The National Institutes of Health, or NIH, notes that consuming soy products may reduce a woman's risk for osteoporosis, certain types of cancers and symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes. However, NCCAM notes that study results have been inconsistent regarding soy and menopause-related hot flashes, and not enough evidence exists to recommend soy for health benefits other than lowering cholesterol.
Concerns
The safety of consuming soy isoflavone supplements over a long period of time has not been established. Women with hormone-related health conditions or certain types of cancer should use caution when consuming large amounts of soy isoflavones.
Recommendations
Soy may be recommended for women in certain circumstances. Soy proteins are high-quality proteins that can replace other animal-based protein sources such as high-fat meats or dairy products. Soy proteins are a healthy choice for vegetarian women. In women who are lactose intolerant, soy milk is typically tolerated better than cow's milk.
Expert Insight
Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels can reduce your risk for heart disease. Because consuming soy can help reduce your cholesterol levels, the NIH recommends consuming 25 grams of soy protein each day, in addition to limiting dietary saturated fat and cholesterol, to help reduce your risk for heart disease.
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