The plant-based milk market continues to grow, being valued at $15.9 billion in 2023. Alongside this movement there’s been an uptick in conversations around ultra-processed foods, which many plant-based milks are considered, and their impact on health and nutrition. It’s important to provide clients and patients with up-to-date, evidence-based insights regarding this topic and inform them of the nutritional benefits some ultra-processed foods, such as soy milk, can offer.

A recent meta-analysis concluded that including soy milk in one's diet can enhance cardiometabolic health by reducing blood pressure and improving blood lipid levels, which are significant factors in the prevention of heart disease.

Determining the Effects of Soy Milk on Cardiometabolic Health
The peer-reviewed statistical analysis was conducted by a team of scientists from the University of Toronto. The research looked at 17 randomized controlled trials and examined 19 outcomes to determine the effects of soy milk on cardiometabolic health.

The analysis sought to understand whether nutrient-dense, plant protein foods like soy milk can be consumed as part of a healthy diet and support cardiometabolic health despite being classified as ultra-processed.

The findings demonstrate that soy milk:

• Improved blood lipids. There were moderate reductions in non-HDL-cholesterol, this includes all the "bad" types of cholesterol.
• Lowered blood pressure. There were large reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
• Led to small reductions in inflammation. Levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an overall marker of inflammation was modestly reduced.
• Showed no other outcomes (including glycemic control, adiposity, NAFLD, and kidney function) differing between soy milk and cow’s milk.

Soy Milk Nutrition Benefits
Soy milk is the only nutritionally suitable alternative to cow’s milk recognized by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines. It is a complete, high-quality protein and lower in saturated fat than cow’s milk. Many options are also fortified with calcium and vitamin D, making them a source of essential vitamins and minerals.

As many soy milks are classified as ultra-processed they are sometimes lumped in with chips, candy bars, baked goods and other foods that may not pack the same nutritional punch. This overarching claim may mislead consumers on the nutritional benefits of this soy food. Patients and clients should be informed that not all ultra-processed foods are equal as some foods, like soy milk, can actually enhance cardiometabolic health and support positive health outcomes.

Soy Milk Uses
From popsicles to baked goods to a simple bowl of cereal, soy milk can be added to a variety of recipes to help clients and patients meet their protein goals or up their calcium intake.

Check out these recipes for more inspiration or click here to learn more about the benefits of soy milk.