Osteoporosis causes the loss of bone mass and strength.
It affects both men and women, but is primarily found in post-menopausal women. Dr. Arjmandi noted that additional long-term study is needed to further determine soy protein's effects on human health. Soy protein, which comes from the soybean, contains a compound called isoflavones. Many scientists attribute the soybean's positive health effects to its high concentration of isoflavones, which are found only in the soybean. A recent issue of the Mayo Health Clinic Health Letter noted that studies on soy have shown promising results in the prevention of heart disease, stroke, cancer, and hot flashes during menopause, as well as benefits for osteoporosis.