Boning up on soya
Some studies suggest that plant hormones found in soya foods (isoflavones) can help reduce bone loss and lower the risk of osteoporosis. However the evidence is somewhat inconsistent. New research that looks at the current research in its entirety concludes that soya isoflavones can significantly reduce bone loss in the spine. The effects were more significant when more than 90 mg a day of isoflavones were consumed. Tofu, tempeh, soya milk, meat substitutes and soya flour are all good sources of isoflavones.
Ma DF, Qin LQ, Wang PY, Katoh R. 2008. Soy isoflavone intake increases bone mineral density in the spine of menopausal women: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clinical Nutrition. 27 (1) 57-64.
About the author
Dr. Justine Butler
Justine joined Viva! in 2005 after graduating from Bristol University with a PhD in molecular biology. After working as a campaigner, then researcher and writer, she is now Viva!’s head of research and her work focuses on animals, the environment and health. Justine’s scientific training helps her research and write both in-depth scientific reports, such as White Lies and the Meat Report, as well as easy-to-read factsheets and myth-busting articles for consumer magazines and updates on the latest research. Justine also recently wrote the Vegan for the Planet guide for Viva!’s Vegan Now campaign.
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