Individuals who are lactose intolerant and cannot consume dairy products, but would like to maintain bone health, may find a good substitute in soy milk and other soy products.

A study conducted by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) looked at how soybean isoflavones affect bone mass. In the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition they explained how they gave postmenopausal women volunteers either a placebo or a pill containing 80 milligrams (mg) or 120 mg of isoflavones.

After three years, they did not observe a significant impact on preventing bone loss from the 80 (mg) supplements, but the scientists said that the bigger dose, coupled with lifestyle changes, appeared to produce a moderately positive result.

The article contained some caveats, including the possibility that the body may respond differently to isoflavone extracts as opposed to pure soy protein, soy foods or a supplement.

Regardless of this, it is important to stress the value of a healthy diet and regular exercise, which both may alleviate the side effects of menopause and enhance bone health in older women.