Soy-Based Infant Formulas: A Review of Developmental and Nutritional Considerations

Many brands of soy-based infant formulas are commercially available in any supermarket. Soy-based infant formulas have been in use for more than 100 years [1] and continue to be very popular as a nutritional supplement for growing infants. Recent findings in soy research even suggest that the phytoestrogens in soy may contribute to a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and a lessening of the effects of menopause—all of which could be added bonuses to consuming a soy diet early in life [2]. However, as researchers investigate the effects of soy on infants, some concerns are arising about both the hormonal (phytoestrogen) and nutritional impacts that soy has on the infant physiology. Inquiries into the amount of phytoestrogens contained in soy formulas compared to cow’s milk and breast milk, how these foods function differently on the infant metabolism, as well as research on the effects of dosage and timing of soy feedings have produced interesting results. Yet there still remain some unanswered questions about how soy exposure in youth affects the later years of an individual.