Soy contains the isoflavones (also called phytoestrogens) genistein and diadzen that are not found in any other foods. These isoflavones have been scientifically proven to reduce blood cholesterol levels and slow down bone loss, thus preventing heart disease and osteoporosis. For some women, isoflavone intake also has reduced symptoms of menopause, specifically hot flashes.

Soy Protein Content Chart

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that 25 grams of soy protein per day will reduce blood cholesterol levels by about 12 percent. Here are examples of common soy foods and their usual protein content range. Check labels on the brands you buy.

3 ounces water-packed tofu — 6 to 13 grams

3 ounces silken tofu — 6 grams

8 ounces plain soy milk — 3 to10 grams

8 ounces Edensoy Extra Plain soy milk — 10 grams

8 ounces vanilla soy milk — 3 to 6 grams

1/4 cup (1 ounce) soy nuts — 12 grams

2 tablespoons soy nut butter — 6 to 8 grams

1 soy burger — 10 grams

1/2 cup (4 ounces) tempeh — 16 to 22 grams

1/2 cup canned white soybeans — 13 grams

1/2 cup canned black soybeans — 11 grams

2/3 cup (3 ounces) edamame — 6 grams

2/3 cup green (sweet) soybeans — 7 to 9 grams

1/2 cup rehydrated textured vegetable protein (TVP) — 12 grams

Getting 25 Grams a Day

It’s easier than you may think to get 25 grams of soy protein a day. Here are some sample meal plans.

Sample Day 1

Breakfast — Soy nut butter on toast (6 grams)

Lunch — 1/2 cup black soybeans on salad (9 grams)

Dinner — 1 soy burger (10 grams)

Sample Day 2

Breakfast — 1 cup Edensoy Extra plain soy milk over cereal (10 grams)

Snack — 1/4 cup soy nuts (12 grams)

Dinner — Appetizer of 2/3 cup edamame (6 grams)

Sample Day 3

Breakfast — 1 cup vanilla soy milk (6 gramsn)

Dinner — 4 ounces tempeh in spaghetti sauce (22 grams)