Earl Mindell's Soy Miracle

Add soy to the ever-growing list of nutriceuticals-foods that purportedly offer health benefits. Thanks to research conducted in numerous countries, especially Asia (and sometimes funded by soy producers), Mindell (Earl Mindell's Herb Bible) is able to document the range of health problems reportedly helped by soy: decreased risk of breast, lung, prostate and colon cancers; retention of bone mass and prevention of osteoporosis; the quelling of menopausal hot flashes; and many more. The compounds in soy that contribute to good health include isoflavones, such as genistein and phytoestrogens (which may help reduce hormone-dependent cancers), various antioxidants, protease inhibitors and phytic acid. Mindell descibes the dozens of soy products available, and reprints recipes from companies that make the food products, as well as from nutritionists who cook with tofu, tempeh and the like. Typical recipes feature tofu scrambled with egg whites and scallions for an Eastern omelet; stir-fry rice or quinoa with vegetables and soy sauce; and a mock hollandaise made with soy milk, cornstarch and lemon juice. Health food devotees will find plenty of information on soy products and how to prepare them, but should exercise caution: soy foods may taste like a miracle, but are not always effective as healing agents. (Feb.)