Recent research indicates that while Americans may hope to eat more healthily, some end up with a poor diet due to their worries about food costs.

According to the 2009 Consumer Attitudes about Nutrition survey, 87 percent of Americans pay attention to the nutritional content of their foods, but some try to hold back on spending more.

However, the study commissioned by the United Soybean Board may encourage (delete s) more individuals to give up their poor diet of fat-rich meat and select healthier, soy-based products.

“[A] block of tofu can star as the protein in a family meal for less than $2, and soybean oil costs one-quarter of the price of some other healthy oils,” explained registered dietitian, Lisa Kelly.

Further research by the government-supported National Institute of Health is starting to show that soy products are not as harmful to male health as previously thought.

Instead, scientists at the National Cancer Institute discovered a lower risk of prostate problems, including prostate cancer in countries with higher soy consumption.

Soy products also can enhance healthy eating programs such as the alkaline diet that is based on citrus fruits, nuts, legumes and vegetables to enhance bone health and help control weight.