Soy has had its fair share of spotlight in the media over the last few years with some articles stating that consuming soy can increase your risk of breast cancer. These claims originate from the idea that isoflavones (phytoestrogens or plant compounds found in types of soy) have the ability to alter hormones, specifically estrogen. It was previously thought that these plant compounds should not be consumed as they may increase breast cancer risk, however there is now updated information about the impact soy can have:
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๐๐๐๐ซ๐ญ ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ก โ Adding foods to your diet that are rich in soy may help control and improve blood pressure, cholesterol and vascular function.
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๐๐๐ง๐จ๐ฉ๐๐ฎ๐ฌ๐- Soy may help reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes.
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๐๐ซ๐๐๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ- Research indicates that soy is safe for breast cancer survivors when eaten in amounts of 2 servings per day. It has not yet been made clear whether soy has a role in reducing breast cancer risk or improving rates of survival from breast cancer. Taking soy supplements is not recommended as they may contain a concentrated source of plant estrogens.
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In addition to these benefits it is also a great source of plant-based protein, and you donโt have to be a vegetarian or vegan to enjoy this alternative food! Soy can provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that you may not be getting from meat.
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๐๐ก๐๐ญ ๐ค๐ข๐ง๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐จ๐จ๐๐ฌ ๐๐ซ๐ ๐ซ๐ข๐๐ก ๐ข๐ง ๐ฌ๐จ๐ฒ? Tofu, edamame beans, soy beverages, soy milk, miso and soy beans are all great options to start incorporating into your diet!
