Soy, the miracle food?

Tofu, edamame and soy milk — once considered a food only for health nuts. Now 25 percent of Americans use at least one soy product a week, according to the industry, and by next year annual sales of soy are expected to hit almost $5 billion. But what’s the real story on soy?

Tofu, edamame and soy milk — once considered a food only for health nuts. Now 25 percent of Americans use at least one soy product a week, according to the industry, and by next year annual sales of soy are expected to hit almost $5 billion. But what’s the real story on soy?”It’s not a cure all. It’s not an end all, and it’s not a magic potion. It is a good dietary supplement,” one expert said.Soy is good for the heart. It’s high in protein, low in saturated fat and has no cholesterol. The FDA has gone on record saying a daily intake of soy can actually help lower your cholesterol by five to 10 percent. What about soy and menopause?”It doesn’t change the cognitive effects of menopause. It doesn’t change the sleep disturbances of menopause. But yes, it will take away hot flashes,” he said.The reason: soy contains isoflavones which can mimic estrogen. Some researchers had been concerned that ingredient could cause cancer in post-menopausal women. But recent studies show that’s not the case.Does soy help strengthen bones? The answer for this one is maybe. Soy has been shown to help prevent osteoporosis in animals, but human studies are less clear.The bottom line is, talk to your doctor about taking bone strengthening drugs and see if he or she thinks you should include soy in your diet. How about soy and cancer? Studies suggest soy might reduce the risk of breast cancer for some women. But if you’re at risk for breast cancer, the American Cancer Society says taking soy may not be a good idea.What about reversing hair loss or prostate cancer in men? In some studies it has suggested it may slow down the balding process in men, and it also will decrease the growth of prostate cancer. Is it a cure for prostate cancer? No. Knowing how much soy to eat isn’t easy. The FDA recommends 25 grams of soy protein per day for heart health. Read the labels, because soy products aren’t regulated by the FDA.Levels of protein and isoflavones vary. Some examples: a little over three glasses of soy milk, half a cup of soy nuts, or three boca burgers will get you your daily allowance. More research is needed, but many doctors believe soy is good for most people.(Source: CBC, August 2004)