Health
Soy could reduce triglyceride levels, hot flashes
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Sept. 12, 2005
Daily consumption of soy protein found in tofu and other soybean products may result in a small reduction in low-density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels, according to a review of 68 studies by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.
In addition, isoflavones found in soy may reduce the frequency of hot flashes in postmenopausal women, said agency reviewers.
But the studies examined were few in number, of poor quality and their duration was too short to lead to definite conclusions, according to an agency report.
Overall, consumption of soy products resulted in a 5 mg/dL, or about 3%, reduction in LDL and an 8 mg/dL, about 6%, decrease in triglyceride levels in the populations studied. Some evidence showed that soy consumption may be more effective at lowering LDL among people with higher levels.
There was a net reduction in hot-flash frequency ranging from 7% to 40%, agency reviewers found.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2005/09/12/hlbf0912.htm.
