Soy is often touted as a healthy food, but there are several myths surrounding the consumption of soy that have led to confusion. Let’s take a closer look and debunk four common myths about soy.

Myth #1: Soy Causes Breast Cancer

One of the most pervasive myths about soy is that it causes breast cancer. This myth likely stems from the isoflavones found in soy, which are phytoestrogens that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.

Estrogen has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, so some people assume that consuming soy, which contains isoflavones that have estrogen-like effects, would also increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

However, research has shown that soy does not increase the risk of breast cancer. In fact, some studies have even found that regular soy consumption may lower the risk of breast cancer.

One study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that women who consumed the most soy had a 29% lower risk of breast cancer than women who consumed the least soy.

Myth #2: Soy Lowers Testosterone Levels

Another common myth about soy is that it lowers testosterone levels in men. Testosterone is a hormone that plays a role in male sexual function, muscle mass, and bone density, among other things.

Some people assume that consuming soy, which contains phytoestrogens, would lower testosterone levels in men.

However, research has shown that soy does not lower testosterone levels in men. In fact, a meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials found that soy protein supplementation had no significant effect on testosterone levels in men.

Myth #3: Soy Is Bad for Thyroid Health

There is a belief that soy is bad for thyroid health and can lead to hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones.

This myth is based on the fact that soy contains goitrogens, compounds that can interfere with thyroid function by inhibiting the uptake of iodine, a nutrient that is essential for proper thyroid function.

However, research has shown that soy consumption does not negatively affect thyroid function in healthy individuals.

In fact, a review of 14 studies published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that soy consumption did not affect thyroid function in healthy adults.

Myth #4: Soy Is Not a Complete Protein

Some people believe that soy is not a complete protein because it does not provide all of the essential amino acids that the body needs.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and essential amino acids are those that the body cannot produce on its own and must be obtained through diet.

However, soy is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all of the essential amino acids that the body needs. In fact, soy protein is considered to be of high quality and is often used as a substitute for animal protein.

Conclusion

In conclusion, soy is a healthy food that can be incorporated into a balanced diet.

The myths surrounding soy have led to confusion, but research has shown that soy consumption does not increase the risk of breast cancer, lower testosterone levels in men, negatively affect thyroid function in healthy individuals, or lack essential amino acids. Enjoy soy in moderation as part of a healthy diet.