But which one has greater health benefits is a matter of fierce debate. Ads for soymilk point to research showing soy can reduce the risk of heart disease. It's also thought that soy may prevent breast and prostate cancer, though that's far from certain.
Experts do agree that soymilk is more easily digested by people who are lactose-intolerant.
The dairy industry emphasizes that its milk is an excellent source of bone-building calcium. In fact, soymilk contains just as much calcium, though it has to be added. And some research has found the calcium in soymilk may not be absorbed as well by the body. Then again, other studies show soy may be better for your bones. What it really comes down to, then, is taste.