Blake Lively Says She Cut Soy to Lose Weight—But Does That Really Work?

 “As far as weight loss, there is no clear, direct scientific evidence suggesting cutting out soy will help,” says Lisa Moskovitz, R.D.  

RELATED: Is Giving Up Dairy a Good Way to Lose Weight?

So why does Blake look so freaking amazing? The answer might be that she’s just eating less overall, says Keri Gans, R.D., author of The Small Change Diet. “If you quit eating any food and don’t replace it with something else, you’re going to be consuming less calories, which leads to weight loss,” she says.

Another reason why giving soy or soy derivatives the ax could lead to weight loss is because it’s found in a lot of processed foods like high-fat, low-nutrient chips, baked goods, and condiments. And when you replace these food products with lower-calorie whole foods, like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein, it is easier to manage your weight, says Moskovitz.

The bottom line is, you don’t need to stay away from edamame and tofu if you’re trying to lose weight, says Gans. “Remember, soy is a very healthy source of protein,” she says.  (Start working towards your weight-loss goals with these moves from Women’s Health’s Look Better Naked DVD.)

Focus on filling your plate with whole foods and lean proteins, and you’ll be on your way to a fitter bod even if you do order the occasional soy latte.