Soy helps prevent cardiovascular disease

In a meta-analysis of 38 controlled clinical studies published in 1995, the authors concluded that replacing animal protein with soy protein significantly lowered levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), and triglycerides in hypercholesterolemic individuals.¹ In Japan, where an average of 55 g of soy protein is consumed per day, the number of deaths due to cardiovascular disease was 201 men and 99 women per 100,000 in 1998. In contrast, the number of deaths due to cardiovascular disease was 401 men and 197 women per 100,000 in 1998 in the United States, where less than 5 g of soy is consumed per day.²

1. Anderson JW, Johnstone BM, Cook-Newell ME.Meta-analysis of the effects of soy protein intake on serum lipids.N Engl J Med 1995 Aug 3;333(5):276-82.

2. Erdman JW Jr. AHA Science Advisory: Soy protein and cardiovascular disease: A statement for healthcare professionals from the Nutrition Committee of the AHA.Circulation 2000 Nov 14;102(20):2555-9.