Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become less dense, more brittle, and fracture easily. Soybeans and soy products are a good source of isoflavones. In addition, soy products are low in cholesterol and a good source of healthy fats. There have been many studies in animals and in humans on the relationship between soy and cancer. There is proof that suggests eating soy helps prevent the formation of cancer cells.
Scientists are unsure if soy also stops the growth of existing cancer cells.
Studies have been done on the relationship between soy intake and breast cancer. Research suggests that eating soy products decreases the risk of breast cancer in premenopausal women. There is little evidence that soy intake decreases the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Other studies have found a decrease in the risk for developing specific cancers such as prostate and endometrial when soy products are eaten often. A particular isoflavone found in soy foods, called genistein, has been studied for its role in stopping prostate cancer growth.