Soy foods have a heart healthy fatty acid profile, soy protein lowers blood cholesterol levels and soy foods may reduce heart disease risk through ways independent of their effects blood cholesterol.

The protein, calcium, and perhaps the isoflavones in soy foods are important for maintaining bone health.

Soy may reduce the risk of prostate cancer and slow tumor growth in men who have the disease.

Combining soy protein with cereal grains increases protein quantity and quality in cereal products.

Low-calorie, nutrient-dense soy foods can help reduce malnutrition and combat the obesity epidemic.

Soy is a high quality source of protein and provides essential nutrients for growth and development such as calcium, zinc, iron, and folate.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a health claim for soy protein in October 1999. The health claim states that 25 grams of soy protein per day may reduce risk of coronary heart disease.