Soy Isoflavones and Bone Loss

Isoflavone-rich soy protein isolate attenuates bone loss in the lumbar spine of perimenopausal women

Article Summary:

This clinical trial aimed to study the effects of soy isoflavones on bone loss in the lumbar spine, specifically in perimenopausal women. Three groups of women were randomly formed: 24 women receiving isoflavone-rich soy (80.4 mg/day), 24 women receiving isoflavone-poor soy, and 21 women receiving whey protein (as a control group). Prior to the study and after the 24-week period the women's lumbar spine bone mineral density and bone mineral content were measured. Also, the women's urinary N-telopeptides and serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase were measured before, during, and after the study. The results show that isoflavone-rich soy had a positive effect on change in both bone mineral density and bone mineral content. However, the control group experienced a reduction in bone mineral density and bone mineral content. Through these and other results, the study concludes that isoflavone-rich soy, not soy protein, contributed to a reduced bone loss from the lumbar spine in perimenopausal women.

Authors:

D Lee Alekel, Alison St Germain, Charles T Peterson, Kathy B Hanson, Jeanne W Stewart and Toshiya Toda

Institution:

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

Country of Publication:

United States

Source:

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 72, No. 3, 844-852, September 2000

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