As per earlier research, Soy has been considered to be a major source of proteins and fiber. Soy foods include soy milk, tofu, soy sauce, miso (which is soy paste) and tempeh (which may be called soy cake). Soy is generally used as a substitute for meat products as soy products are rich in all the amino acids which are required for sustaining the normal functions of the body. Soy may also be added to foods like cereals and breads. Soy and soy products are rich in Vitamin B6 which are instrumental in building amino acids and also helps in formation of neurotransmitters.
It was also thought that the isoflavones (which are plant hormones) present in Soy products are related to several health benefits
Ill Effects Of Soy Foods And Dangers Caused By Soy Proteins
However, current research has unearthed several ill effects of soy foods:
The plant hormones found in soy proteins that were thought to reducing the rates of certain types of cancer, may actually promote cancer. Preliminary studies of a chemical called genistein suggest that it can actually increase the risk of breast cancer in women.
Women with current or past breast cancer should avoid soy products as these products have been seen to promote the growth of tumors in animals. Many governments across the world are now issuing warnings for women with cancer or those who have battled cancer to refrain from consuming soy products.
Soy products have also been linked to lowered sperm count, infertility and other related problems.
Infant soy formula has been recently linked to autoimmune thyroid diseases in babies. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment has cautioned people against using soy infant formulas and suggests that it be used if absolutely necessary and only under medical supervision.
Children who consume soy products may suffer from several nutritional deficiencies. Soy products contain very high levels of phytic acid. This reduces the absorption of calcium, iron, zinc and several other nutrients. This acid cannot be destroyed by soaking or cooking.
Tests which included mice and other animals showed that those fed with soy products with trypsin inhibitors suffered from stunted growth. Trypsin inhibitors are present in soy and in addition to interfering with normal growth have also been linked to pancreatic disorders.
While large amounts of soy products can have a disastrous effect, when it comes to soy, even small amount can cause health problems. ¼ glass of soy milk contains about 25mg of isoflavone while tests with just 22 mg of isoflavone have shown it to have severe effects.