I am frequently asked about my thoughts on consuming soy products, in particular soy milks. More information is available under Health Tips but in short here is a summary on the do’s and don’ts of soy:
NEVER consume genetically modified soy products – check ingredients as soy is often added to products and unless it specifically stipulates non-GMO and organic, do not purchase this
NEVER consume non-organic soy
Soy is best consumed in its fermented states – this includes tempeh, miso, tamari and natto. Tofu is a bean curd and is beneficial for some Blood Types and Ayurvedic types.
Soy milk is also best avoided unless it is made from whole non-GMO, organic soy beans which have been prepared by traditional methods. This involves soaking and steaming which is a slow process rendering maximum absorption of the nutrients. At the moment, the only readily available milk brand that adopts this traditional process is Bonsoy and, more recently available https://www.happyhappysoyboy.com/.
The benefits of soy – Non GMO, Organic, properly prepared – include:
- alkalising for the body
- good source of fibre and plant proteins
- contains no cholesterol
- contains essential fatty acids – Omega 3
- good source of potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron
- contains some Vitamin A and Vitamins B1, B2 and B3
Therapeutic uses include:
-
- regulate triglycerides
- raise HDL (good cholesterol)
- decrease oxidation of LDL
- reduce the risk of atherosclerosis
- gentle blood thinner
- decreases high blood pressure
- reduced risk of coronary artery disease and stroke
- hormone balancing effect of the Phytoestrogens in soy products (isoflavones) have the capacity to regulate oestrogen activity
- shown to reduce hot flushes
- improve bone mineral density
- lower cancers (breast, prostate)
- antioxidant effects
- regulate blood sugar
- regulate bowel movement
- prevent gallstones
The processes of fermentation, soaking and steaming break the bonding between mineral and phytate thus making the minerals bio-available.
In any case, I recommend consuming moderate amounts of soy only as, with all foods, a good variety and combination is best.