Food Tip: Benefits of Soy Products

They're rich in phytoestrogens which may help decrease blood cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis. Isoflavones in soybean products may also decrease menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. Soy sauce isn't the best way to get these beneficial effects, though. Try foods such as soy milk, tofu, soy powder, and even soybeans themselves. Some sushi bars offer boiled soybeans called "edamame" on menus. They look like large English peapods. Asian markets and health food stores may carry them. You want fresh green soybeans (not dried). Boil or steam them in the pod for 10 to 20 minutes. Serve hot or cold.

- From the UT-Houston Health Science Center Lifetime Health Letter

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Courtesy of Texas Medical Center News

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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E-Mail: tmcinfo@texmedctr.tmc.edu
URL: http://www.tmc.edu/health_briefs/05_01_98-soy.html