(S)oy Vey: FDA Moves to Revoke a Health Claim!

In an unprecedented move, the FDA has moved to revoke the health claim approved in 1999 that eating soy protein protects against heart disease.  This recommendation was largely based on the lack of conclusive evidence that adding soy protein based products (or supplements) reduces risk factors associated with heart disease.

Here’s what we know:

1.  Adding soy protein to the diet generally has a modest effect on lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol (-3%).  However, when soy protein is substituted for animal-based proteins, LDL lowering is 2-3 times as high (6-10%) and viewed as protective to your heart.
2. Soy protein can improve vascular health.  We reviewed all of the published studies and found that isoflavone-containing soy products dilates blood vessels and improve function of the inner lining of your blood vessels (endothelium).
3. Soy products contain powerful antioxidants (isoflavones include daidzein and genistein) and high intake is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular death.

Bottom Line:  Substitution of soy for animal protein (~25 grams per day) is considered to be protective to your heart.  The best sources of soy protein are edamame beans, tempeh, tofu and soy milk (see soyfood protein content chart).

Dr. Michael Miller is a cardiologist and Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.  He is also a member of the American Heart Association (AHA) Nutrition Council and his latest book is “Heal Your Heart: The Positive Emotions Prescription to Prevent & Reverse Heart Disease” – 100% of book proceeds are donated to the AHA.