The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recently released a report after conducting a comprehensive review of the scientific evidence that says there is “no indication that isoflavones at levels typically found in food supplements cause harm to post-menopausal women.” Isoflavones are naturally occurring substances which are found, among other sources, in soy and their extracts are often used as ingredients in nutritional supplements. The key finding in the EFSA report is that they have no concerns about soy isoflavone consumption up to 150 mg/day for post-menopausal women. For context, soymilk has 27mg of isoflavones per 1-cup serving, according to the USDA database.
Here are some key facts about soyfoods:
- Soy is a complete protein. Among plant-based foods, soy is unique because the protein in soy products can be considered a complete protein, like the protein found in meat, milk, and eggs. That means it has all the essential amino acids in right amounts.
- It’s low in saturated fat and contains no cholesterol, which makes it a great heart healthy option for meals and snacks!
- Soy is associated with a variety of health benefits including improved cardiovascular health, cognitive function and mental ability, muscle health, prevention of bone loss, satiety, and weight management
- Soy foods are full of essential nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin A, vitamin D, iron, dietary fiber, and essential amino acids.
- The FDA has stated that incorporating 25 grams of soy protein a day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce (bad) LDL cholesterol and boost (good) HDL cholesterol as well as lower saturated fat, cholesterol, and calorie intake.
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