Tofu Health Benefits Like other soy-based foods, tofu contains plant estrogens. For many years, people thought soy added too much estrogen to your body and led to breast cancer in women.
Some studies report that soy products can increase estrogen levels in the body, while others suggest they have the opposite effect. Paradoxically, both are true. Soy contains isoflavones (a type of phytoestrogen), which are considered selective estrogen receptor modulators.
This begs the question “Does tofu affect testosterone?”
The most common answer is, 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 ).
This isn’t an opinion but a fact. A meta-analysis was done which looked over 32 studies and 36 different test groups on the effects of soy., and the results? “The results of this meta-analysis suggest that neither soy foods nor isoflavone supplements alter measures of bioavailable T-concentrations in men. ”.
Does tofu have any nutritional value?
Tofu is an excellent source of many nutrients, including protein, calcium, iron and potassium. It also contains significant amounts of Vitamin A, magnesium, manganese, copper, phosphorus, choline, zinc and selenium. There is no significant amounts of cholesterol in tofu.
Whether made from GMO soybeans or not, tofu is generally considered safe for human consumption. Tofu is high in protein and contains all of the essential amino acids your body needs. It also provides fats, carbs, and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals.
What foods increase estrogen levels?
It is made from soy milk. Tempeh is an excellent source of protein and magnesium as well as iron. This is perhaps considered as the best food to increase your estrogen level. Garlic, multigrain bread, sesame seed, dried fruits, chaste berry supplements, flaxseed, or herbal tea as well may be important too.