Meta-analyses of Soy Protein and Its Food Sources for Cholesterol Reduction

Although soy protein has approved health claims in Canada and the US, and is recognized by major cardiovascular clinical practice guidelines for the reduction of cholesterol and risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), these claims are based almost exclusively on evidence from foods containing isolated soy protein (ISP). The role of other non-ISP food sources of soy protein (e.g Tofu, tempeh, edamame) in these effects is unclear. The role of food form and matrix (e.g soy beverage versus meat analogue) on the effects of ISP is also unclear. As national dietary guidelines and clinical practice guidelines for nutrition therapy shift from a focus on single nutrients to a focus on foods and dietary patterns, it is important to understand whether non-ISP food sources of soy protein and ISP food sources with different food matrices produce the same reductions in LDL-cholesterol and CHD risk. To strengthen the evidence-base for health claims and guidelines development, the investigators will conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of the effect of ISP and non-ISP food sources of soy protein on stablished lipid targets in individuals with and without dyslipidemia.