Are you looking for a healthy alternative to meat or poultry? Numerous studies have shown that soy can lower total levels of cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the bad form of cholesterol. The greater availability of soy products in grocery stores and markets has made it easy to incorporate soy into your diet. Try these tips for increasing your soy intake:

• Make the milk switch. Soymilk, which comes in both shelf-stable and refrigerated varieties, can be consumed just like cow's milk - straight from the glass or in recipes. Soymilk may come in plain or flavored varieties such as chocolate and vanilla, and is also used in soy-based dairy foods such as ice cream and yogurt.
• Try tofu. Tofu, or cooked pureed soybeans, is great to eat on salads or mixed into dips or stir-fries. Another way to use tofu is to create a protein-packed smoothie - blend tofu with your favorite fruit and ice for an easy snack.
• Meatless and delicious. Food manufacturers may use textured soy protein as a meat substitute or filler in soy burgers, soy sausages and soy hot dogs. Instead of picking up your normal barbecue meat, try a soy variety instead.
• Eat soy for energy. Do you rely on protein bars as a snack between meals or before a hard workout? Look for brands that use soy as a source of protein.
• Fill your sandwiches with soy. Sandwiches are quick and easy for lunches at home or on the run. Try sandwich fillings such as soy nut butter (instead of peanut butter), soy luncheon meats and soy cheese.

When looking for soy foods with the healthiest benefits, look for foods that are low in fat (especially saturated fat) and contain at least 6.25 grams of protein per serving, says the US Food and Drug Administration.

Related information Nutrition Center

Sources:  "Adding Soy Protein to Your Diet," U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA Consumer Magazine, http://www.fda.gov/fdac; American Soybean Association, http://www.amsoy.org; United Soybean Board, http://www.soyfoods.com