Soy protein and cholesterol

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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.

References

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Citations
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.

Credits

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Author	Robin Parks, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology
Last Updated	July 11, 2008

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Last updated:	July 11, 2008
Author:	Robin Parks, MS
Reviewed By:	E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine, Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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