Diet and Cancer

SOY FOODS and CancerWhy should I be concerned about cancer?Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the US. It kills 1 out of every 4 Americans each year.

How is diet related to cancer?Diet may be linked to as much as one-third of all cancer cases in the US. Recent research has shown that components of plant foods called phytochemicals may decrease cancer risk.

What are phytochemicals?“Phyto” comes from the Greek word for plant. Phytochemicals are natural parts of plants that may decrease the risk of chronic diseases like cancer.

How do soy foods decrease cancer risk?Soy contains phytochemicals called isoflavones. Isoflavones may decrease the risk of breast, prostate, and colon cancers.

FAST FACTS...Soy protein is the only plant protein that is nearly equivalent in quality to animal protein.

In addition to tofu and other traditional soy foods, soy can now be found in many dairy and meat alternatives.

Soy foods that contain at least 6.25 grams of soy protein per serving can carry a health claim about reduced risk of heart disease.

Soymilk sales grew from 100 million in 1995 to 500 million in 2000.

Soy Food in YOUR diet...Include a soy food in your diet at least once per week.

Prepared by J. Lynne Brown, Ph.D., R. D.Associate Professor Food Science

The Pennsylvania State University 2004 c Layout and Design by Dave Varley

College of Agricultural SciencesAgricultural Research and Cooperative Extension

Soy Foods Soy Protein (g/serving*)

*Average grams per serving of soy food

Tempeh, 4 oz. 16Soy protein bar, 1 each 14Soybeans, cooked/canned, 13 1/2 cupRoasted soynuts, 1/4 cup 12Soy burger, 1 each 10Firm tofu, 3 oz. 8.5Plain soymilk, 8 oz. 8Soft or silken tofu, 3 oz. 6Vanilla soymilk, 8 oz. 6