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Soy protein and cholesterol

Until recently, experts thought that soy protein reduced cholesterol. But the most recent studies show that eating soybean protein does not significantly decrease LDL cholesterol levels. The American Heart Association (AHA) evaluated the results of recent studies involving soy and cholesterol. The AHA found that soy reduced LDL cholesterol levels by about 3%. Soy protein did not change levels of HDL cholesterol or triglycerides.1

But there are other benefits to eating soy protein. Substituting soy for animal protein may be good for your overall health because of the fiber, vitamins, minerals, and low saturated fat in soy compared to animal protein.

Citations

  1. Sacks FM, et al. (2006). Soy protein, isoflavones, and cardiovascular health: An American Heart Association science advisory for professionals from the Nutrition Committee. Circulation, 113(7): 1034–1044. Also available online: http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/113/7/1034.

Author Ralph Poore
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer Caroline S. Rhoads, MD
- Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Neil J. Stone, MD, FACC, FACP
- Internal Medicine, Cardiology
Last Updated July 20, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: July 20, 2006
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