A lot of you have asked me about soy and if it’s good for you or not.

Here’s the truth about soy: it is good for you HOWEVER it’s about where it is sourced from and how it was made. With that being said, there are many arguments out there that go against soy and disregard the benefits of this plant-based source of protein.

Let’s get into specifics. Soybeans are a type of legume from eastern Asia.

Many Asian diets use soybeans as a diet staple, and it has been used for thousands of years { via }. Nowadays, it’s mainly grown in North American, South America, and Asia.

With so many soy products readily available including: soy milk, soy sauce, tofu, tempeh, soy flour, and soybean oil, it’s pretty much everywhere and it can be difficult to know what’s good and what’s not.

PROS-

• Soybeans that aren’t processed are LOADED with antioxidants and phytonutrients that are very beneficial to your health.

• They are one of the best sources of plant-based protein, with one cup of boiled soybeans totaling to about 29 grams!

• They are low in carbs, have a fair amount of fiber, and they have about 50% total fat content.

• They are loaded with vitamins including: molybdenum (found in seeds, grains, and legumes), vitamin K1 (prevents blood clotting), folate (also known as B9; considered a key nutrient during pregnancy), copper (helps with heart health), magnanese (trace element), phosphorous (essential mineral), and thiamine (helps with bodily functions).

• They are loaded with bioactive plant compounds including: isoflavones (antioxidant), phytic acid (impairs the absorption of minerals like zinc and iron), and saponins (reduces cholesterol in animals).

• Reduces the risk of cancer

• Reduces menopause symptoms

• Reduces the risk of osteoporosis

• Helps with weight-loss

This is where it gets tricky. In Asia, these soybeans are consumed whole usually; BUT, in the Western countries, these soy products are heavily processed.

CONS-

• The main proteins in soybeans, which are glycinin and conglycinin, may trigger allergic reactions in some people

• Too much soy may have an adverse effect for people with hypothyroidism (this is a condition that calls for those with low production values of thyroid hormones)

• Since soybeans contain insoluble fibers, some people may have stomach discomfort (those with IBS or digestive issues should be careful)

• Those with soy allergies should avoid soy proteins

I wanted to give you some positive and negatives, since this seems to be a concern for consuming soy products.

However, after much research, it is evident that there really are more positives than negatives in consuming soy products.

My number one tip for consuming any soy products it to be aware of where it is sourced. Make sure that it is ALWAYS organic, non-GMO, and as FEW ingredients as possible.

Soy is fine and it has gotten a bad reputation for quite some time, so that’s why I felt inclined to share this. I consume soy as a protein source on a regular basis and I feel great! There are many vegan athletes out there that consume tons of soy, as well, and they don’t have any negative effects. It’s all about finding what works for you, first and foremost.

*Disclaimer, I am not a doctor and I am not telling you what to do, I am just telling you what works for me. I am sharing what I’ve learned through MY research. Ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

What are your thoughts on consuming soy?

Lots of love and light,

Ash x