Soy and the prevention of lifestyle-related diseases

1. Epidemiological studies suggest that consumption of soy foods is associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, and breast and prostate cancers. 2. Clinical intervention studies indicate that some soy components, especially soy isoflavone-containing soy protein isolate, reduced serum total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol. 3. Animal studies generally support the conclusion that some soy components prevent the development and progression of breast and prostate cancers. 4. Epidemiological investigations and intervention studies suggest that some soy products are effective for the relief of menopausal symptoms.