Effects of Soy Protein and Isoflavones Intake on HDL Metabolism in Asian Populations

Abstract

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) has been shown to have a variety of functions that contribute to anti-atherogenesis. Therefore, low HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) level is significantly associated with the development of coronary artery diseases (CADs). Soy and isoflavones have been proposed to reduce the risk of CAD. However, the underlying mechanisms for soy and isoflavone-induced reduction of coronary risks remain largely unknown. To understand effects of lifestyle on lipids metabolism, the existence of interracial differences should be considered. Here we reviewed published articles about effects of soy and isoflavone intake on HDL metabolism. We regarded systematic review and meta-analysis and also clinical studies which were performed in Asian populations as important articles in this review. Evidences obtained from clinical trials performed in Asian populations showed that effects of soy protein and isoflavones on HDL-C were limited, which may be due to limited studied population such as postmenopausal women. Meta-analyses indicated that intake of soy protein and isoflavones is beneficially associated with HDL metabolism. J Endocrinol Metab. 2014;4(3):51-55 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jem224w