The use of soy is more prevalent than we even known. Soy is surprisingly in most of our foods, from cookies to condiments. It can be very beneficial to health. Soy benefits include lowered cholesterol and providing the body with isoflavones, omega-3 fatty acids, and phytic acid. However there are several health risks associated with soy.
Like the peanut, which has one of the highest allergy percentages, soy can cause allergic reactions. Such allergies often begin in children and can progress on through adulthood. Dairy allergies are often associated with soy products. Because so many people are allergic or reactant to dairy soy-based products have been created in their stead. These include milks, cheeses, creams, flours, oils, formula, and meal. Tofu is often consumed by vegetarians and vegans as a meat replacement food. Simply because soy replaces dairy does not mean that soy does not come with ill effects.
Soy has been shown to increase phyto-estrogen levels in the body. In women excess estrogen levels in the body can result in slower metabolisms and weight gain. In men excess estrogen levels can result in alterations in testosterone levels. This means that those who consume soy-based replacement products, like soy milk, in attempts to lose weight may actually have results in the other direction.
This doesn’t mean that all soy consumption is bad. On the contrary soy has many benefits to the health. It has been shown to stave off some kinds of cancers as well as help heal the brain following injury. Before consuming each, be sure to fully consider how much soy you are eating.
