Should I Take Soy Supplements?

Taking soy supplements may not be as beneficial as previously thought

A recent study from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine indicates that soy supplements, such as isoflavones, do not ward off hot flashes or prevent bone loss in menopausal women. A popular substitute for hormone therapy, soy supplements are proving they’re insufficient. But the study doesn’t translate to soy foods.

“There are lots of pros to incorporating whole soy foods into your diet – in moderation,” says Melinda Ring, MD, medical director of Integrative Medicine at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. “What studies are continuing to show is taking soy supplements like isoflavones are not as beneficial as previously thought.”
Still, studies continue to support soy’s cholesterol-lowering capabilities.

“There is good evidence that whole soy, such as in milk, tofu or edamame, has cardiovascular benefits such as lowering LDL cholesterol,” says Dr. Ring. She recommends 1-2 servings of soy a day, which could translate to 1 cup soy milk, ½ cup soy beans, ¾ cup soy yogurt, ½ cup or 4 ounces firm tofu.

Written by Frances Bridges

Tagged as: health and wellness and soy