Soya is a type of legume that is widely used in many food products. It's high in protein and can be found in many forms such as tofu, tempeh, soya milk and more. While it may seem like a healthy choice, there are some potential health risks associated with consuming too much soya.
Soya contains compounds called phytoestrogens, which mimic the hormone estrogen found naturally in the body. Consuming high amounts of these phytoestrogens can disrupt hormone balance and have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and fertility issues.
How will phytoestrogens affect me?
Phytoestrogens can affect different people in different ways. In some cases, consuming large amounts of soya can lead to an imbalance of hormones, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, depression and mood swings.
While there are many studies on the effects of soya consumption, the results are still inconclusive. It is best to speak with your doctor if you have any concerns about potential health risks associated with consuming soya products.
In general, it is best to avoid or limit your intake of soya products if you are looking to improve your overall health and wellbeing.
Soy also contains substances called goitrogens which can interfere with thyroid function when consumed in large amounts. This can lead to hypothyroidism, weight gain, depression, mood swings and fatigue among other symptoms.
What are goitrogens?
Goitrogens are compounds that can cause skin problems and other health issues. They are found in soy products and can be difficult to avoid, but they are usually less harmful than phytoestrogens.
While goitrogens are usually less harmful than phytoestrogens, they can still have negative consequences for the body. They can increase the risk of skin cancer, infertility, breast cancer and other reproductive issues. It is important to speak with your doctor before starting any new diet or supplementation program to ensure that you are taking all of the necessary precautions.
What are phytic acids and phytates?
Phytic acid, also known as phytate, is an organic acid found in plant-based foods. It can interfere with the absorption of essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc. In addition, it has been linked to digestive issues and inflammation.
Finally, soybeans are often highly processed and genetically modified (GMO). GMO foods may contain higher levels of pesticides than their non-GMO counterparts, which can be potentially harmful to your health.
For these reasons, it is best to avoid or limit your consumption of soya products. If you do choose to consume them, opt for organic and non-GMO varieties whenever possible.
What about fermented soya?
Fermented soya, such as miso, tempeh and natto, may be a better choice than unfermented soya. Fermentation increases the availability of beneficial nutrients, such as B vitamins and probiotics. It also reduces the levels of phytic acid, which can interfere with the absorption of certain minerals. However, it is still important to consume fermented soy in moderation.
Is it best that I avoid soya altogether?
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if soya is something you want to include in your diet. If you do choose to consume soya, make sure it is organic and non-GMO whenever possible. Also, keep in mind that fermented soya may be a better choice than unfermented varieties. It is also important to consume soya in moderation, as too much can have adverse effects on your health.
What are the low-carb alternatives to soya?
If you are looking for low-carb alternatives to soya, consider adding other plant-based proteins such as lentils, chickpeas, beans, nuts and seeds. These can be a great way to get your protein without the carbs. You can also add animal proteins such as eggs, fish, poultry and lean meats.?
Conclusion
Soya is a plant-based protein source that has been linked to both health benefits and risks. It contains phytates, which can interfere with the absorption of certain minerals. If you do choose to include soya in your diet, make sure it is organic and non-GMO whenever possible, and consume it in moderation. There are also several low-carb alternatives to soya that you can use as protein sources instead.