Evidence supporting the use of: Tofu
For the body system: Skeletal System (Bones)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4
Tofu is scientifically recognized for its potential benefits in supporting the skeletal system, primarily due to its high calcium content and presence of isoflavones. Calcium is essential for the development and maintenance of strong bones, and tofu made with calcium sulfate is a particularly rich source of this mineral. Numerous studies have demonstrated that adequate calcium intake is correlated with higher bone mineral density and reduced risk of osteoporosis, making tofu a valuable dietary addition for bone health, especially for those who do not consume dairy products.
Additionally, tofu contains isoflavones—plant-based compounds classified as phytoestrogens. Research indicates that isoflavones may help preserve bone density, particularly in postmenopausal women, by mimicking some effects of estrogen, a hormone that protects against bone loss. Clinical trials and meta-analyses suggest modest but statistically significant improvements in bone mineral density with soy isoflavone supplementation.
However, the degree of benefit may depend on the type of tofu, the amount consumed, and individual absorption rates. While tofu alone is not sufficient to prevent bone disease, it can be a meaningful component of a balanced diet for skeletal support. Thus, the use of tofu for bone health is scientifically justified, with a substantial foundation of evidence supporting its role in promoting bone mineralization and reducing bone loss risk.
Other ingredients that support Skeletal System (Bones)
alfalfaalpha-ketoglutarate (AKG)
amino acids
sesame
boron
Indian frankincense
bovine
bovine gelatin
broccoli
calcium
cartilage
Chinese salvia root
chondroitin
cissus quadrangularis
collagen
collard
devil's claw
fish protein
gelatin
genistein
genistin
green lipped mussel
horsetail
ipriflavone
magnesium
manganese
microcrystalline hydroxyapatite concentrate (MCHC)
milk
phosphorus
protein
prune
rehmannia glutinosa
sardines
silicon
spinach
strontium
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin D3
vitamin K
seaweed
water
boneset
solomon's seal
eucommia
trace minerals
herbal blend (proprietary)
algae
soy isoflavones
Arugula
Antler
Achyranthes
Algas calcareas
Animal protein
Boswellic Acid
Beef
Bone Marrow
Baicalein
Bovine Protein
Borate
Boswellia
Bone Protein
bovine cartilage / glycosaminoglycan
Buckwheat
Comfrey
Chinese Silkvine
Chinese Mountain Ant
Citrate malate
Cod Liver Oil
Chinese Pond Turtle
Chuchuhuasi
Cruciferous
Corallina officinalis
Dolomite
Daidzein
Deer Velvet
Drynaria
Dipsacus
Egg
Elk antler
Eucommia ulmoides
Estrogen
fibroblast growth factor
Glycosaminoglycans
Isoflavones
Molasses
Milk Protein
Phosphate Salt
Soy Protein