Introduced to the US in 1929, the Agate soybean is a heavy producing variety that carries beans with a unique olive-gold and brown color, and a flavorful taste. Nutritionally, soybeans contain hormone-like substances called phytoestrogens, which may protect women against coronary heart disease during their reproductive years. Soybeans have also been shown to lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, both known risk factors for Coronary heart disease (CHD). In fact, people who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy may consume soy food products for this reason.