Now that these infections are under control and people are living longer, the most common causes of death are heart disease and cancer. Researchers are now looking into the foods we eat as possible causes of both heart disease and cancer. Although there are controversies, it is well established that fatty foods are associated with both of these conditions. It has been known that people who live in china and Japan have a lower incidence of heart disease, breast cancer and prostate cancer. One of their food staples is soy.
Studies concerning the protective benefits of soy are also controversial.
Most studies have shown that soy, especially if it contains isoflavins, will lower cholesterol. It is not as certain that soy protects against breast and prostate cancer. We know a great deal more about the benefits and liabilities of the foods we eat, but the final word concerning soy products is still not known.