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| Even if you already eat a low-fat diet, you can substantially lower your blood cholesterol by replacing some low-fat animal protein with soy products. Studies have shown that people with raised blood cholesterol levels who ate soy products instead of half or all of the animal protein in their diet, reduced their blood cholesterol by 8 to 16 percent in a few weeks. Researchers attribute this to the particular balance of fiber, fatty acids, and phytoestrogens in soybeans, which help deactivate and remove dangerous LDL cholesterol from the body. Soybeans also contain alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid linked to improved heart health. |
| High-Fiber Benefits |
| Soybeans, tofu, tempeh, and other soy products are rich in both soluble and insoluble fibers. Soy fiber improves digestion and can prevent and ease constipation, thereby reducing the risk of colon cancer and other bowel diseases. |
| Soy fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels. By slowing down the speed of digestion and absorption, fiber fosters a steadier rise and fall of blood sugar, which benefits diabetics and stabilizes energy levels. |
| Women and Soy |
| Early evidence shows that eating soy products reduces hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause and postmenopause, such as loss of bone minerals. Researchers believe this is due to soybeans' high phytoestrogen content. |
| Soybeans are the richest known source of the phytoestrogen compounds genistein and daidzein, which are weaker versions of the estrogen women produce naturally. When estrogen rises to danger- |
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