Benefits of Soy

The benefits of soy foods are often cited in the news, including reports that soy protein may help prevent certain cancers and heart disease, reduce hot flashes and lower cholesterol. Many health benefits of soy protein and isoflavones have been well-researched by rigorous clinical studies across several countries and many other proposed benefits are currently under study.

Discussion of health benefits are bolstered by the fact that the fact that soy beans contain many macro-nutrients required for good nutrition:

All essential amino acids of protein
Complex carbohydrates
Omega-3 fatty acids
Vitamins and minerals such as calcium, folate and iron

However, the benefits of soy extend far past health and food. The oil of this versatile plant serves as the base for a variety of industrial lubricants, cosmetics, candles and even vehicle fuel (biodiesel).

Learn more about the science behind health benefits for soy foods and the history of soy beans in the United States.

Soy milk vs. Dairy

Soy milk is good and good for you. As you can see from the chart below, soy milk packs more vitamins and minerals, and less fat and calories.

NUTRITIONAL CHART
(based on one 8-ounce serving)

	Leading Vanilla Soy Milk	2% Dairy Milk*

Calories	100	120
Fat	3.5g	5g
Saturated Fat	0.5g	3g
Cholesterol	0	20mg
Sugar	7g	12g
Sodium	95mg	100mg
Carbohydrates	10g	11g
Vitamin A	10%	10%
Vitamin D	30%	25%
Calcium	30%	30%
Iron	6%	0%
Folate	6%	3%

* USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 18

Soy Fact

When eaten as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, 25 grams of soy protein a day may reduce the risk of heart disease.

U.S. Food & Drug Administration