Soy for children: One of nature’s perfect proteins

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. LaTara Wilkins
  • 60th Diagnostics and Therapeutics Squadron diet therapy technician
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Throughout the past few years, there has been quite a bit of chatter surrounding the topic of children and soy milk. There is a wealth of information regarding the topic of soy milk and children, but it is sometimes difficult to determine fact versus fiction.

As part of David Grant USAF Medical Center's Outpatient Nutrition Clinic's recognition of National Nutrition Month, I'll cover the basics of soy, its benefits and unravel some common myths. Although I won't address the use of soy-based formula during infancy, I'll discuss the use of soy versus cow's milk after two years of age.

Soy and soy-based products have been used in the Asian diet for many years, but are more recently gaining popularity in the American diet. Soy milk is made from ground soybeans that are mixed with water to form a milk-like liquid. It can be consumed by people who are dairy sensitive or by strict vegetarians who eat no animal proteins. Soy milk is an excellent source of protein, B-vitamins, iron and if fortified, provides adequate calcium. It has low levels of saturated fat and is cholesterol free.

Soy is considered a nutritionally complete protein, meaning it contains all of the essential amino acids, in the correct amounts, required by the body. The protein quality in soy beans is nearly equal to that found in meat, cow's milk and eggs; it is one of the only plant foods that have such a complete protein profile.

Soy milk is naturally lactose-free. There are many individuals who are lactose intolerant and cannot consume dairy products.

"Soy milk is a nutritious alternative to dairy for people who are lactose intolerant or who avoid eating animal products," said Tatiana Dykes, 60th Diagnostics and Therapeutics Squadron registered dietitian. "It also offers up some nutrients that cow's milk does not, including heart-healthy omega-3 fats."

According to Dykes the United States Department of Agriculture recommends children consume two to three cups per day of fat-free or low-fat milk or milk equivalent. Soy milk is a safe alternative to meet these recommendations.

"One of the most prevalent myths regarding soy milk intake is that soy milk is nutritionally incomplete for children," Dykes said. "For the majority of children, soy can be introduced at the age of one. It is recommended to choose soy milk which has been fortified with calcium and other vitamins and minerals and has 4 percent fat."

It is interesting to note fortified soy milk has some vitamins and minerals that you don't get in regular milk, such as iron. Fortified soy milk provides as much calcium, if not more, than dairy milk. Soy milk is sometimes fortified with vitamins A and D and provides children with the same recommended amounts of these nutrients per serving as cow's milk. Another interesting fact about soy milk is that since it comes from a plant source it also contains fiber. Soy milk is the alternative that contains nearly the same amount of protein per cup as cow's milk; 7 grams versus 8 grams respectively.

Whether you choose to provide your child with dairy milk, soy milk or another milk alternative, be sure to speak with your child's doctor before making any permanent dietary changes.

DGMC's outpatient nutrition clinic has registered dietitians on staff to help you along the way with additional questions. They can be reached at (707) 423-7867.