It’s not as safe as you might think…
Soy is a vegetarian and vegan alternative to animal proteins, thanks to the fact that it contains all the amino acids needed to build muscle. For those looking for a non-animal based protein source, it’s considered one of the best around. It’s found in protein bars, protein shakes, and many other fitness and health foods. But, according to a wide range of research, there may be a link between refined soy and cancer, as well as a number of other complications.
Refined Soy and Cancer
Soy is rich in antioxidant compounds, but some of them can actually do more harm than good. In this case, we’re talking about isoflavones.
Isoflavones are compounds that function similar to the way estrogen does in the human body. They actually activate the estrogen receptors in the body. This can be a bad thing, as it stops the receptors from using estrogen, essentially blocking this vital hormone. The isoflavones in soy can interfere with your normal hormone function, preventing the estrogen from binding. Or, even worse, it can increase estrogen activity in your body.
Why is an increase in estrogen activity bad? Two very scary words: breast cancer. The link between soy and cancer is very tangible and real for a significant number of women who either are currently battling breast cancer or have in the past.
READ MORE: Does Soy Milk Make You Fat?
Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer among women, and it is connected to hormonal imbalances. If the isoflavones in soy increase estrogen activity, it increases the growth of epithelial cells in the breasts. These epithelial cells are the ones most likely to turn cancerous, thus increasing the risk of breast cancer among women.
Refined Soy and Other Health Problems
Here are a few more health problems potentially caused by refined soy and soy products:
- Reduced testosterone levels — Testosterone is the male version of estrogen. If there is a lot of estrogen present in the human body (or the body thinks there is, thanks to the isoflavones in soy), testosterone levels may drop. This can lead to reduced libido, sex drive, and overall male health.
- Poor infant health –– Soy-based baby formula has been proven to be a less-than healthy choice for infants. Not only does it lead to an increase in breast tissue growth at a very young age, but it can also lead to an earlier onset of puberty. The risk of neurological problems like ADHD increases with soy intake at an early age.
- Thyroid function disruption –– Consuming high quantities of soy beans or soy products increases the production of Thyroid Stimulating hormone. This hormone can lead to an impairment in thyroid function, leading to constipation, overall malaise, thyroid enlargement, and drowsiness.
- Inflammation –– Soy beans are rich in Omega-6, an Omega fatty acid that is important for your overall health, but which can be dangerous if consumed in excess. The Omega-6s can act as an inflammatory agent in your body. Inflammation can contribute to a wide range of health disorders, making refined soy a food you’ll want to eat in VERY small quantities.
