Soy Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Soy, including details on soy milk, soy protein, soya bean, benefits, dangers.

Soy protein influences insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular risk in male lean SHHF rats.

Davis J, Steinle J, Higginbotham DA, Oitker J, Peterson RG, Banz WJ

Animal Science, Food & Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901-4317, USA.

Previous investigations have demonstrated a marked effect of soy protein on multiple physiological parameters associated with the metabolic syndrome (MS). This preliminary study investigated the physiological effects of soy-based diets on cardiovascular risk in a unique rodent model that reflects early stages of MS. Briefly, lean male SHHF (+/cp) rats were randomly assigned to the following treatment groups: casein (control, C); low-isoflavone (LIS) soy protein isolate; high-isoflavone (HIS) soy protein isolate; or C+ 0.01 % rosiglitazone (CR). Rats were fed for thirty-six weeks. Liver weight, heart weight, total plasma cholesterol, fasting blood glucose were lower in soy-fed animals compared to control (p < 0.01). Body weight, kidney weight, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), fasting plasma insulin, and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) score were also lower in LIS-fed rodents (p < 0.05) compared to casein treatment. All diet groups exhibited lower urine protein (p < 0.01) and small arteriole content (p < 0.05) compared to controls. LIS feed had a slightly more profound influence on body weight, liver metabolism, and insulin sensitivity. However, both soy diets exhibited marked improvements over a casein-based diet.

Published 22 June 2005 in Horm Metab Res, 37(5): 309-15.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2004-2008 Soy Research Today. All Rights Reserved.