Soya, is frequently hailed as a health food option for vegetarians and vegans. It is commonplace in many products, such as soy (tofu, soy milk, soy chunks), and healthy-processed (soy protein snacks and drinks). Soya is cheap, can be produced quickly, provides thickness and creaminess to products. However, is it as healthy as it appears? Today, many experts are advising caution around soya consumption, particularly in its processed forms.
Reason Why Soya Is in Everything
Soya is ubiquitous because it is cheap and has versatility. It is added to both processed foods such as protein bars, snacks, cereals, and even some baby foods. It is possible that you have ingested it unbeknownst to you. Just because it appears in many items doesn’t mean that it is healthful.
1. Most of the Soya Is Genetically Engineered
One major issue with soya is that more than 90% of the soya on the market today is genetically engineered (GE). This means that scientists have altered the natural state of the plant’s genes for faster growth, and pest resistance. There is a concern that GE may have unknown effects on our health, especially if consumed on a regular basis.
2. It Can Impact Your Thyroid
Soya has components that can disrupt thyroid function, which regulates your metabolism and energy levels in your body. Some people, especially those with thyroid problems, may notice changes in levels of thyroid hormone with regular soya consumption. In many cases eliminating soya from the diet can improve these levels.
3. It’s usually highly processed
Most of the soya we eat comes in a form that is not natural to our body. It is typically processed into various ingredients used in packaged or junk foods, which have little nutritional value and loads of empty calories. Not to mention, we tend to avoid processed fat and sugar. Maybe we need to rethink overly processed soya.
4. It’s not a traditional food for everyone
In places like India, soya is a fairly new food. Traditional Indian diets have not included large amounts of soya like some other Asian countries. Genetics may play a role on how we process foods. Additionally, food habits are passed down from generations. The longer we eat a food, the better our body adapts to eating it. Our bodies may not adapt as well to new foods such as processed soya, and this may lead to longer term health impacts.
5. It can affect hormones
Soya has molecules that are called phytoestrogens and have estrogens (hormones) properties and can affect the hormones of men and women. For women too much soya can interfere with ovulation and for men this can cause testosterone levels to drop. However, a small amount of soya can definitely help women after menopause.
The Japanese method of eating soya
Standardly people will point to Japan, where soya is a common part of the diet. However, we must understand that Japanese people primarily eat fermented forms of soya (for example, miso, tempeh, natto) which have to way more easy to digest and have not the negative effects. Also, they eat small amounts-not massive soya shakes or soya meat replacements.
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Soya is not a “bad” food, but eating too much, or eating processed soya foods can be harmful. If you choose to eat soya, decide on organic and non-GMO. Stay natural or fermented if you can. As with most things, moderation is key. Knowing the facts will help you make better decisions for your health.