Although soy is recognized for its health benefits, the isoflavones in soy may disrupt hormones. Thyroid Soy is a phytoestrogen that mimics the body’s naturally occurring hormone functions. The thyroid gland, which is responsible for the production and storage of hormones that control all of the body’s systems, can be disrupted by phytoestrogens.
Soy is a phytoestrogen that mimics the body’s naturally occurring hormone functions. The thyroid gland, which is responsible for the production and storage of hormones that control all of the body’s systems, can be disrupted by phytoestrogens.
You should be thinking “Do soy products mess with your hormones?”
Soy is rich in B vitamins and a good source of omega-3 essential fatty acids. It is present in many foods, including meat products and meat substitutes, cereals and baked goods. Although soy is recognized for its health benefits, the isoflavones in soy may disrupt hormones.
The BBC recently cited Oxford University research that found soy milk requires less water to make than dairy, almond, and oat milks, and production of it creates fewer emissions than rice and dairy milks (but more than oat or almond milk). Soy milk likely will not mess with your hormones.
Does soy raise estrogen levels?
Soy protein-containing foods like tofu, textured vegetable protein and edamame do not significantly increase estrogen levels in either men or women. Soy is a top source of protein and a useful and versatile component of a healthy plant-based diet. However, reports about the effects of soy on hormones make some people wary about eating it.
Soy protein-containing foods, like tofu, textured vegetable protein and edamame, do not significantly increase estrogen levels in either men or women. Soy may have mild, beneficial anti-estrogenic or estrogenic effects, depending on your time of life.
Does soy negatively affect your testosterone levels?
Studies are ongoing regarding the effect of soy on health and fertility. Soy does not currently appear to lower testosterone levels or affect sperm health, but if you’re concerned about your fertility, you may consider limiting your consumption of soy. Specific nutrients in foods and supplements may help increase your testosterone levels.
Soy and soy-based products Some research shows that regularly eating soy products like edamame, tofu, soy milk, and miso may cause a drop in testosterone levels. For example, one study in 35 men found that drinking soy protein isolate for 54 days resulted in decreased testosterone levels ( 3 ).