New research supports soyfoods as being safe for everyone – including men.
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s May 2009 study finds that soyfoods and soy isoflavone (a plant chemical thought to be responsible for many of the health benefits of soy) supplements have no negative effects on male reproductive health or testosterone levels. The meta-analysis was a literature review of studies on men’s consumption of soyfoods and reproductive health from research published before July 1, 2008.
“Soyfoods’ role in helping to reduce bone loss and alleviate hot flashes for women, and more recently the protective effects of soyfood consumption for adolescents and for prevention of breast cancer, are some of the health issues that often come to mind when talking about the benefits of soy,” said Gretchen Hofing, Michigan State University Extension soyfoods health educator and a registered dietitian based in Lenawee County. “This newest study brings to the forefront what research has been saying for years -- that soyfoods can also play a positive role in men’s diets.”
Soyfoods are a source of high-quality protein and are relatively low in saturated fat. They can be an important part of a heart-healthy diet, possibly leading to a reduced risk of heart disease. Some research suggests that soyfoods can also play a preventative role in prostate cancer development.
Easy to find and quick to prepare, a wide variety of soyfoods is available in mainstream grocery stores. Look for them in the produce and frozen vegetable aisle, as well as with their traditional counterparts, such as soymilk with dairy milk and soy flour with wheat flour. Soyfoods are also quick to prepare or incorporate into favorite foods. Use frozen “burger” crumbles which need no browning to save time, or use a container of silken tofu as an alternative to cream cheese or sour cream in your favorite dip recipe.
Purchasing and consuming soyfoods not only addresses health goals, but also supports Michigan agriculture.
The Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee represents soybean producers in the state and funds soybean research and educational efforts. For more information on the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee, visit www.michigansoybean.org.
For information on MSU Extension nutrition programs, visit www.msue.msu.edu/fcs and click on “Nutrition.” To learn more about soy and health, visit the Soyfoods Association of North America at www.soyfoods.org.
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