NY Times Takes on Soy for Menopause

NEW YORK--"As a Hormone Substitute, Soy Is Ever More Popular, but Is It Safe?" This was a lead health headline in the Aug. 24 issue of The New York Times, as the paper looked at the increasing number of Americans consuming soy for its purported health benefits.

In the story (www.nytimes.com/2004/08/24/health/24soy.html), health writer Laurie Tarkan noted consumption of soy and soy products has been on the increase, particularly among women seeking alternatives to traditional hormone therapy for menopause, which has been shown in studies over the past year to be linked to problems with heart disease and breast cancer. In addition, the story covered the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approval of a health claim linking consumption of soy with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, and the agency's current review of a petition from St. Louis-based Solae Co. to make health claims for soy and prevention of some types of cancer.

A great deal of the story focused on the connection between breast cancer and the isoflavones (phytoestrogens) found in soy. The author did not reach a conclusion on the safety of soy related to breast cancer; she presented both positive population studies and some animal studies indicating isoflavones may stimulate breast cancer growth. She did conclude moderate soy intake, as is seen in Asian countries, is likely safe; however, the potential for high isoflavone intake through fortified foods and options like soymilk and energy bars, could pose a risk.

Greg Paul, director of Health & Nutrition and Nutraceuticals at The Solae Co. (www.solae.com), noted it is important to consider the totality of the scientific literature, rather than reviewing studies in isolation. "For more than three decades, The Solae Co. has been committed to the research and application of soy protein," he said. "Because we have this unique historical perspective, we know the scientific data demonstrate that soy protein provides real health benefits. This statement is not an opinion held by the company; it is what the weight of the scientific evidence supports."

He added Solae's filing for health claims on soy and heart health (approved by FDA in 1999) and soy and cancer (currently under review by FDA) were based on a thorough evaluation of the existing scientific evidence. "Numerous studies show that consumption of soy protein may reduce the risk of heart disease as well as certain types of cancer, including breast cancer," he said.