CLINICAL RESEARCH
Diabetes
As obesity rates continue to rise, so do the rates of Type 2 diabetes. Studies suggest that soyfoods may help to support weight maintenance, an important factor since obesity is a key risk factor in the development of Type 2 diabetes. Soyfoods provide high-quality protein and have a low glycemic index and load, factors which may help maintain optimal blood glucose levels and provide advantages for people with diabetes. In addition, soyfoods may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and renal (kidney) disease, two diseases associated with diabetes.
Soy intake has also been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, a common complication of diabetes.
Some, although not all, studies indicate that soy protein favorably affects renal function when compared with animal sources of protein.
Renal disease is a frequent complication of diabetes. Unlike animal protein, soy protein does not appear to increase renal blood flow1,2 and also has been shown to decrease protein in the urine,3 both key indicators of improved kidney function.
References:
1. Nakamura H, Takasawa M, Kashara S, Tsuda A, Momotsu T, Ito S, Shibata A. Effects of acute protein loads of different sources on renal function of patients with diabetic nephropathy. Tohoku J Exp Med. 1989;159:153-162.
2. Teixeira SR, Tappenden KA, Carson L, Jones R, Prabhudesai M, Marshall WP, Erdman JW, Jr. Isolated soy protein consumption reduces urinary albumin excretion and improves the serum lipid profile in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus and nephropathy. J Nutr. 2004;134: 1874-1880.
3. Barsotti G et al. Effects of a vegetarian, supplemented diet on renal function, proteinuria, and glucose metabolism in patients with ‘overt’ diabetic nephropathy and renal insufficiency. Contrib Nephrol. 1988;65:87-94.