Soy is often seen as a primary source of plant-based protein, especially among vegetarians. It is said that soy products have various health benefits, such as lowering heart diseases risks, reducing menopausal symptoms and preventing cancer. On the other hand, it is claimed that soy could cause prostate and breast cancer, thyroid disorder and brain damage, as well as disrupting endocrine functions. Other than for tofu, soy is also used in other food products, such as milk and soy butter. We can also find meat replacement products that are made from soy beans. In reality, not all soy products are health food. In Asia, people actually eat a small amount of soy, which come from fermented soybean that’s genetically modified. In Western countries, soybean is often processed into oil and protein. It means that we are dealing with soy products that are less natural and potentially, less safe. Soy products could be rich in phytic acid, which has inhibiting effects on zinc, iron, copper and magnesium assimilation. This could growth problems in children. Phytates that we get from legumes and grain could have a contribution on mineral deficiencies among people in developing countries.
Phytoestrogen is a type of plant based estrogen that’s typically found on soy beans. It disrupts our hormonal balance and may reduce our fertility. It promotes breast cancer, thyroid cancer and hypothyroidism. Soy-based infant formula may also have correlation with autoimmune thyroid diseases. Soy protein is fragile and when exposed to high temperature, a toxin called lysinoalanine is produced.
Other substances that are created in this process include a potent neurotoxin called free glutamic acid or nitrosamines MSC, which can appear when soy beans are processed. Soy products may also high amount of aluminium, which is picked up during the cooking process. Aluminum may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and kidney issues. Due to this reason, it is important that we are able to choose soy products properly. The product should go through little or no processing steps. Any material that is highly processed could lose the overall nutritional level and what’s left is just residual substances. The positive potency of soy beans are longer there. It is even better if we are able to make sure that the soy plants are not genetically modified. By taking these steps, we will get the maximum benefits of soy beans, with no or minimal overall risks. Soy beans are beneficial for our body, but we need to be careful with its consumption.
Healthy soy products can become replacement to various dairy products. As an example, soy milk is known to be versatile, smooth, delicious and nutritious. It is rich in good protein, while being free from lactose, cholesterol and bad fats. Compared to cow milk, it contains more iron and protein, but lower in calories and unfortunately, calcium. So, you may need to get additional calcium from other sources. Soy cheese is also available as replacement to normal cheese and it’s made from soy milk. In order to get the same texture, calcium caseinate is added. Again, it’s lactose and cholesterol free.