Silk soymilk plus omege-3 DHA: think you know this bodybuilding staple? Here's what's hiding out in one of your favorite foods

Muscle & Fitness, July, 2009 by Matthew Kadey

Soybeans Phytoestrogens in soy may skew the estrogen: testosterone ratio when consumed excessively, which may affect muscle growth, on the flip side, they appear to offer bone, heart and cancer protection, Enjoy in moderation.

Polyunsaturated Fat 3 g This faux moo juice is full of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) via the addition of vegetarian-friendly algal oil. DHA is a superstar omega-3 fat that's necessary for heart and brain health and may help reduce muscle inflammation after training.

Sugar 6g To make soymilk more palatable, sugar-in this case, evaporated cane juice--is often added. If you're strict about your intake, consider opting for unsweetened versions or take advantage of the sugar postworkout.

Saturated Fat 0.5 g Unlike what comes from Bessie, soymilk is naturally low in sat fat.

Calcium 35% DV To better mimic cow's milk bone-building calcium along with vitamins D, [B.sub.12] and A and immunity-boosting zinc are added. This isn't always the case with nondairy beverages.

Protein 7 g Contrary to popular belief, soymilk has just as much protein as cow's milk. The protein in moo juice is of higher quality, however, and may do a better job of mending and building muscle.

--MATTHEW KADEY, MS, RD