The benefits of soy, touted as a wonder healthfood for menopausal women with benefits ranging from lowering cholesterol to preventing osteoporosis, just don’t stack up. While previous studies had suggested that the isoflavones found in soy protein may provide a natural alternative to HRT, a new study of 175 postmenopausal women found no significant difference between those taking the isoflavones and the controls taking powdered-milk protein. Also, soy failed to lower cholesterol, increase bone density or aid cognitive function (JAMA, 2004; 292: 65-74).