Melissa Wdowik PhD, RDN, FAND
  • Home
  • About
  • Services
  • JUST ONE THING NUTRITION
  • In The News
  • Blog: Just One Thing
  • All Blogs
  • Publications
  • Presentations
  • Handouts
  • Education & Honors
  • Certifications & Trainings
  • Contact Me
  • Onboarding Form

TRANSLATING RESEARCH
inTO PRACTICAL ADVICE

The Pros And Cons Of Soy

4/1/2015

0 Comments

 
As National Soy Food Month winds up, I would like to follow up last month’s discussion on soy, this time focusing on women. It can be difficult to keep up with the facts when soy is recommended to fight hot flashes one day and the next it is decried as causing cancer. Let’s look at some common questions.
 
Is soy nutritious?
Whole soy foods, including soy beans, edamame, tofu, tempeh, and soy milk contain a variety of phytochemicals and antioxidants that work to protect against heart disease, some cancers, and type 2 diabetes. Soy is also high in protein and fiber, has a variety of both vitamins and minerals, contains healthy fats, and is relatively low in calories.
 
Does soy cause breast cancer?
Natural soy foods contain isoflavones, which are similar to estrogen; thus my clients often think soy will raise their risk for hormone-sensitive cancer, such as breast cancer. Studies exploring the relationship between soy intake and breast cancer have been mixed, but recent research suggests soy does not promote the development or progression of breast cancer. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, consumption of soy among breast cancer survivors, at levels of 1 to 2 serving per day, did not increase their risk for poorer outcomes.
 
Is soy good or bad for the heart?
Research on soy and heart health is promising. There is evidence that soy lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol slightly, and soy’s fiber and antioxidants are heart healthy. Consider a soy-based meal once a week in place of meat, but use caution with meat alternatives such as soy crumbles, burgers, or sausage, as these often have a lot of added salt.
 
Can soy prevent hot flashes and other symptoms that occur after menopause?
Because soybeans have isoflavones, it seems logical they would relieve symptoms caused by low levels of estrogen in the body. Thus, soy has been studied as a treatment for hot flashes, with inconclusive results. While some research found fewer hot flashes and night sweats in women who consumed soy, others found equal results with a placebo. While the jury is still out, I advise against soy supplements or overconsumption, but instead recommend a moderate intake for its other health benefits.


***
As seen in the Fort Collins Coloradoan
***
0 Comments

    Melissa Wdowik, PhD, RDN, LDN, FAND

    is a nutrition educator with over 20 years experience as a college professor, nutrition coach, presenter and writer, as well as a nutrition consultant and  founding director of the Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center.
    -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -
    ​Be sure to check out her new book here:
    Eat to Defeat Viruses


    Blog Categories

    All
    Diabetes
    Digestive Health
    Fats
    Goals & Resolutions
    Healthy Diets
    Heart Health
    Mindfulness
    Nutrition "Casserole"
    Power Foods
    Preventative Health
    Sugars
    Vitamins & Nutrients

    Archives

    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    June 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    February 2013
    January 2013
    December 2012
    November 2012

 HOME    |    ABOUT    |    SERVICES    |  CONTACT 
nutrition, diet, weight loss, keto, paleo, metabolism, gluten, food, cook, eat, immunity, anti-inflammatory, exercise, wellness
  • Home
  • About
  • Services
  • JUST ONE THING NUTRITION
  • In The News
  • Blog: Just One Thing
  • All Blogs
  • Publications
  • Presentations
  • Handouts
  • Education & Honors
  • Certifications & Trainings
  • Contact Me
  • Onboarding Form