Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis, published in Nutrients (MDPI) in 2021, synthesises evidence from randomised controlled trials examining the impact of soy protein with isoflavones and isoflavone extracts on plasma lipid profiles in postmenopausal women. The review likely reports modest but potentially significant reductions in total and LDL cholesterol, with variable effects on HDL cholesterol and triglycerides, though findings may be heterogeneous across trials. The study contributes to the evidence base on dietary phytoestrogens as a non-pharmacological approach to managing cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal populations.
UK applicability
While the review draws on international trial data, the findings are broadly applicable to UK postmenopausal women and relevant to UK dietary guidance on cardiovascular disease risk reduction; UK clinicians and dietitians may use such evidence when advising on soy-based dietary interventions.
Key measures
Total cholesterol (mmol/L or mg/dL); LDL cholesterol; HDL cholesterol; triglycerides; standardised mean differences across RCTs
Outcomes reported
The study assessed the effects of soy protein containing isoflavones and isolated isoflavone extracts on plasma lipid parameters, including total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, in postmenopausal women. Pooled estimates from randomised controlled trials were synthesised to determine the magnitude and direction of any lipid-modifying effects.
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