Concept in Definition ABC

Soy is a food, specifically a legume, which has been taken in different ways for thousands of years in the continent Asian (in the form of milk, tofu or sauces).

On the other hand, in the West it began to be consumed to feed livestock, but after the appearance of food GM soybeans began to be cultivated on a massive scale in the United States and with the passage of time this phenomenon spread to the entire planet.

Today soy milk and many other products derived from this legume can be found in most countries. His consumption it is not exempt from debates and conflicting opinions. For some, it is an almost miraculous food and others consider that its excessive consumption is harmful to health.

Arguments in favor

Although its origin is vegetable, it stands out for its high content of protein. Both soybeans and its derivative products are beneficial because they increase the protein intake in the diet but do not increase cholesterol or saturated fat levels.

According to some experts in

nutrition, consuming 25 grams of soy protein per day helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Due to its high content of isoflavones, it produces an antioxidant effect that is very beneficial for health in general. On the other hand, it also contains lecithin, a nutrient that helps reduce triglyceride levels.

Supporters of soy emphasize its high content of minerals, such as sodium, magnesium, potassium or phosphorus.

Exhibitions against

According to some studies, soy should be consumed as a dietary supplement and not as a staple in the daily diet. In fact, it has been proven that when consumed excessively, there is a decrease in zinc and iron in the intestine. On the other hand, in gout patients who abuse soy, a gouty crisis can be triggered.

With regard to soy milk, it is claimed to be unhealthy for several reasons:

1) It has phytoestrogens that unbalance the hormones in our body,

2) it is a food that increases the risk of breast cancer,

3) contains phytic acid, a compound that reduces the absorption of some minerals, such as calcium, magnesium or zinc,

4) some types of soy milk are made from genetically modified soy and it is unknown what the long-term health effects may be and

5) the calcium in soy milk is actually calcium carbonate that builds up in the arteries and becomes a danger for him heart.

Photos: Fotolia - Siwaporn999 / Dusan Kostic

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