Soy foods and weight loss
Data suggest that soy foods are as good as other protein sources for promoting weight loss, according to researchers at the University of Alabama in Birmingham.
But is there more?
First, the details.
- Laboratory, animal, epidemiologic, and clinical studies were evaluated and summarized.
And, the results.
- Certain soy foods improve weight and fat loss when included as part of a diet by affecting caloric intake (limited support in animal not human studies).
- Some evidence that soy foods will prevent/improve risk factors related to the regulation of blood sugar and heart health during weight loss -– more data are needed.
- No data that certain soy foods will minimize the loss of bone mass during weight loss.
The bottom line?
There are lots of limitations in what we know to be true about soy foods and dieting in humans.
The authors concluded, “Limitations in existing data make it difficult to reach conclusions… Overall, the current data suggest that soy foods are as good as other protein sources for promoting weight loss.” But regarding additional benefits, the results “must be carefully interpreted and additional evidence is needed.”
6/7/08 10:52 JR