We shall See! I found an Article by a Renowned Natural Practicing Scientist who is Very Good with a Lot of Things to do with Foods, Diet and Nutrition who likes Soyabeans recently and I found it baffling because "he would know better" I said to myself in astonishment. Then I realised, he is Asian and lives in a Western Country. So there's obviously personal sentiments involved. I try not to do that with Research and Articles I place on my Websites. And being an Independent Natural Health Researcher (Part-Time) makes me Keen to keep to True Facts, and Balanced Info compared to some Professionals out there.
A Word of Good Advice: Even when there is Seemingly Equal "For and Against Facts" you should always "Err on the Side of Caution" that is considered to be Wise Decision Making when it comes to Your Health and Your Family. Those who fail to do this or are easily influenced are often sorry at a later date because Toxicity from "Certain Foods" Accumulate in our System over time and should not be Underestimated.
As far back as 2012, there were Articles like Soy, Soy: The Great Big Marketing Ploy? and Can You Trust Soy Or Is It A Ploy? on the Internet concerning the Prevalence of SOY in So Many Foods and Groceries, to the point it is getting So Frustrating to so many of us. YES?
I'm going to place Details here on this Page for 3 Favorite Leading Natural Health Advocates I have respected through the Years I use quite often for Reference when Checking certain things. They are Dr Joseph Mercola, Dr Josh Axe and Dr Eric Berg. Some of you may well recognise their names, and I wholeheartedly recommend their work. Joseph Mercola has more Extensive Info on SOY than Anyone - including the Natural Practicing Scientist I mentioned.
Dr. Josh Axe
He generally advises Caution with Soy, recommending that it be consumed Occasionally Only in Moderation in its Organic, Fermented, or minimally processed forms. He warns that most Conventional, Non-Organic Soy in the U.S.A and certain Countries is Genetically Modified (GMO), Highly Processed, and potentially Linked to Adverse Health Effects, including Hormonal Imbalances, Digestive Issues, and Allergies.
Key takeaways from Dr. Axe regarding SOY include:
- Preferred Forms: He recommends fermented soy products like Natto, Tempeh, and Miso, which are considered more digestible and nutrient-dense.
- Avoid Processed Soy: He advises Avoiding Processed Soy Products, such as Soy Protein Isolate found in Protein Bars, Mock Meats (Vegetarian/Vegan) and conventional Soy Milk.
- GMO Concerns: He warns that Conventional Soy is largely Genetically Engineered (GMOs) and often contains residues of the Toxic Herbicide Glyphosate.
- Hormonal Impact: Due to High Isoflavone (Phytoestrogen) content, he suggests Limiting Soy Intake to Avoid potential Disruptions to Hormonal Balance.
- Soy Sauce Alternative: He recommends replacing traditional soy sauce with Coconut Aminos, citing them as a healthier, gluten-free, and non-GMO alternative.
While he advises caution, Dr. Axe notes that an occasional Organic, Non-GMO Whole Soya Bean meal can be included in a Balanced Diet (strictly in moderation).
Dr. Josh Axe takes a Nuanced View of Soy, distinguishing between highly processed GMO soy (which he warns against) and Organic Fermented Soy (which he recommends).
The "Stay Away" List
Dr. Axe advises avoiding most conventional soy products found in Western diets because over 90% of U.S. soy is genetically modified and heavily treated with glyphosate. He suggests avoiding:
- Soy Protein Isolate & TVP: Often found in Protein Bars and "Fake Meats," these are highly processed and may contain Chemical Solvents like Hexane.
- Unfermented Soy: Tofu (non-organic) and Soy Milk can contain Antinutrients like Lectins and Phytates that may Block Mineral Absorption and Irritate the Gut.
- Soybean Oil: High in Omega-6 Fatty Acids (way out of balance) which can contribute to Chronic Inflammation.
- Conventional Soy Sauce: Often contains Gluten, MSG, and High Sodium Levels; he recommends Coconut Aminos as an alternative.
The Recommended "Superfoods"
He specifically advocates for Organic and Fermented Soy Varieties, which he says are easier to digest and contain probiotics that support Gut Health.
- Natto: High in Vitamin K2 and the Enzyme Nattokinase, which supports heart health.
- Tempeh: A fermented "complete protein" that provides a healthy meat alternative with Probiotic benefits.
- Miso: Traditionally fermented and rich in nutrients.
Dr. Eric Berg
He generally advises against consuming Soy, particularly processed Soy Protein Isolate, calling it one of the Worst Proteins due to Heavy Metal Contamination (Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium), Hexane processing, and Nutrient Loss. He highlights that Soy contains Isoflavones that can Disrupt Hormonal Balance, leading to Feminizing Effects in Men.
Key points regarding Dr. Berg's view on SOY include:
- Hormonal Disruption: Soy contains Phytoestrogens (Isoflavones) that mimic Estrogen in the body, which can Negatively affect Hormonal balance, specifically causing issues like breast growth or reduced sperm count in men.
- Processing Concerns: Dr. Berg argues that Processed Soy Products are often high in Inflammatory Omega-6 Fatty Acids.
- Health Hazards: He has referred to Soy Protein Isolate as the "number 1 worst protein in the world" due to Contaminants, the use of Hexane, and Sodium Hydroxide in production.
- Recommendation: He advises against Soy, suggesting it can contribute to Inflammation and is not a "Health Food".
Dr Eric Berg is generally critical of Modern Soy Products for a good reason, often categorizing them as some of the "Worst" Foods for your Health due to Processing Methods and Hormonal Concerns. However, he distinguishes between Refined Soy and Traditional Fermented Versions.
His Primary Arguments Against Soy Include:
- Refinement & Chemicals: He identifies Soy Protein Isolate (SPI) as a Highly Processed "Unnatural" Protein. He claims it is often extracted using Hexane, a Petroleum-Derived Solvent linked to Liver and Neurological Issues.
- Hormonal Impact: Berg warns that Soy contains Phytoestrogens (Isoflavones) that mimic Estrogen in the body. In his view, Excessive Intake can lead to Hormonal Imbalances, such as reduced sperm count and breast tissue development in men (gynecomastia).
- GMO Concerns: He notes that the vast majority of Soy is Genetically Modified and treated with Glyphosate, which he links to Gut Inflammation and "Leaky Gut".
- Antinutrients: Unfermented Soy contains Phytic Acid and Enzyme Inhibitors that Berg says can block the Absorption of essential minerals like Zinc, Calcium, and Magnesium.
- Inflammatory Oils: He classifies Soybean Oil as a dangerous Seed Oil high in Omega-6 Fatty Acids, which he claims contributes to Chronic Inflammation and Liver "rusting".
The Exception: Fermented Soy
Berg approves of Fermented Soy in Moderation, provided it is Organic and Non-GMO.
He recommends:
- Natto: High in Vitamin K2 and beneficial for Circulation.
- Tempeh & Miso: The fermentation process Reduces Antinutrients and makes them More Digestible.
He generally advises against consuming Soy, particularly Processed Soy Protein Isolate, calling it one of the Worst Proteins due to Heavy Metal contamination (Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium), Hexane Processing, and Nutrient Loss. He highlights that Soy contains Isoflavones that can Disrupt Hormonal Balance, leading to Feminizing Effects in Men.
Key points regarding Dr. Berg's view on Soy include:
- Hormonal Disruption: Soy contains Phytoestrogens (Isoflavones) that mimic Estrogen in the body, which can negatively affect Hormonal Balance, specifically causing issues like breast growth or reduced sperm count in men.
- Processing Concerns: Dr. Berg argues that Processed Soy Products are often High in Inflammatory Omega-6 Fatty Acids.
- Health Hazards: He has referred to Soy Protein Isolate as the "Number 1 Worst Protein in the World" due to Contaminants, the use of Hexane, and Sodium Hydroxide in production.
- Recommendation: He advises against Soy, suggesting it can contribute to Inflammation and is Not a "Health Food" as many have been led to believe!
Dr Eric Berg is generally critical of Modern Soy Products, often categorizing them as some of the "Worst" Foods for your Health due to Processing Methods and Hormonal Concerns. However, he distinguishes between Refined Soy and Traditional Fermented Versions.
His Primary Arguments Against Soy Include:
- Refinement & Chemicals: He identifies Soy Protein Isolate (SPI) as a Highly Processed "Unnatural" Protein. He claims it is often extracted using Hexane, a Petroleum-Derived Solvent linked to Liver and Neurological Issues.
- Hormonal Impact: Berg warns that SOY contains Phytoestrogens (Isoflavones) that mimic Estrogen in the body. In his professional view, Excessive Intake can lead to Hormonal Imbalances, such as reduced sperm count and breast tissue development in men (gynecomastia).
- GMO Concerns: He notes that the Vast Majority of Soy is Genetically Modified and treated with Glyphosate, which he links to Gut Inflammation and "Leaky Gut".
- Antinutrients: Unfermented Soy contains Phytic Acid and Enzyme Inhibitors that Berg says can Block the Absorption of Essential Minerals like Zinc, Calcium, and Magnesium.
- Inflammatory Oils: He classifies Soybean Oil as a dangerous Seed Oil high in Omega-6 Fatty Acids, which he claims contributes to Chronic Inflammation and Liver "rusting".
The Exception: Fermented Soy
Berg approves of Fermented Soy in Moderation, provided it is Organic and Non-GMO.
He recommends:
- Natto: High in Vitamin K2 and beneficial for Circulation.
- Tempeh & Miso: The fermentation process Reduces Antinutrients and makes them More Digestible.
Dr Joseph Mercola
Dr. Joseph Mercola generally Advises Against the consumption of Most Soy Products, strongly distinguishing between.
Unfermented and Fermented Soy: He argues that the Health Risks of Modern, Unfermented Soy Products far Outweigh any Potential Benefits.
Here are the key points of his perspective:
- Dangers of Unfermented Soy: Mercola warns that Unfermented Soy (Soy Milk, Tofu, Soy Protein Isolate, Soybean Oil) can lead to Serious Health Issues, including Thyroid Dysfunction, Cognitive Decline, Reproductive Disorders and Immune System Breakdown.
- High Phytoestrogen Content: He argues that the High Levels of Phytoestrogens (plant-based Estrogens) in Soy can Disrupt the Endocrine System (Our Glands) with special concern for Infants, stating that Soy Formula provides a Hormone Load equivalent to multiple Birth Control Pills a day.
- Processing and Toxicity: He claims that the processing of Soy Protein creates Toxic, Carcinogenic Substances, such as Nitrosamines, and free glutamic acid (MSG).
- Fermented Soy Exception: Mercola is in favor of traditional, Fermented Soy Products, such as Miso, Tempeh, Natto, and Organic Soy Sauce. He notes that Fermentation Reduces the Anti-Nutrients and makes the Soy Digestible, providing a good source of Vitamin K2.
- Thyroid Issues: Mercola frequently advises that those with pre-existing Thyroid Conditions should Avoid Soy Altogether, as it can Inhibit Thyroid Performance.
Summary of View: He advises Avoiding most Processed Soy found in the Western diet, calling it an "Industrial Waste Product" that is often Genetically Modified (GMOs)
Dr Joseph Mercola is a vocal critic of Unfermented Soy, claiming its Health Risks far Outweigh any benefits. He primarily differentiates between "Modern" Processed Soy and "Traditional" Fermented Soy.
His Key Arguments Include:
- Fermented vs. Unfermented: Mercola advocates Only for Fermented Soy Products like Natto, Miso, and Tempeh, which he claims provide Vitamin K2 and are easier to digest.
- Hormonal Concerns: He warns that Soy's High Phytoestrogen content acts as an Endocrine Disruptor, potentially leading to infertility, low libido, and developmental issues in children.
- Infant Formula: He strongly advises Against Soy-Based Infant Formula, suggesting it delivers a Hormone Load Equivalent to Several Birth Control Pills daily - incredible as that may sound.
- Anti-Nutrients and Toxins: Mercola claims Unfermented Soy contains Trypsin Inhibitors that interfere with Protein Digestion and Phytic Acid that blocks Mineral Absorption.
Processing Issues: He argues that Modern Soy Processing (like that used for soy milk or isolated soy protein) involves Toxic Solvents and results in Carcinogenic Byproducts.
A real Caution here for those who like Schnitzels from Supermarkets and Take Aways and Restaurants - they are always Laden with SOY OIL or Canola Oil which is Really Bad too (Not the healthy Oil they Claim it is - Far from it) please be Advised. Also, most times you see 'Vegetable Oil' on product Labels, those Companies have used Soy Oil. The term "Vegetable" Oil is one of the Biggest Marketing PLOYS out there. So Misleading - deliberately. An Overlooked Culprit in many people's Diet, plus SEED OILS (Soy Oil, Canola, Sunflower and Safflower) are a Major Contributor to Overweight; Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome disorders. In fact, in recent times, they have been noted by Fully Informed and Honest Professionals as THE WORST Ultra-Processed Food (UPFs) out there, on the Market.
I strongly advise that you consider (True Unadulterated) Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Avocado Oils (some Growers Cheat by adding Seed oils when Harvests are Small) and Coconut Oil and Ghee in place of the UPFs Seed Oils, that have been deliberately Villainised decades ado by the Corrupt Seed Oil Industry to channel All Sales to their Dangerous Products. So DODGY of them.
I also recommend Using CHICKPEAS in place of Soya Beans for those of you who are wondering "What can we have now?"
Good News: there are Plenty of Recipes available Online for Chickpeas. You will be amazed (they are So Popular) I will give you a Link to Lots of Recipes I have saved from Various Recipe Websites in my Recipe Collections with Copy Me That Membership HERE. I have about 200+ stored, including lots of Homemade Hummus Recipes you can make HERE and some Soy-Free Tofu Recipes you can Venture HERE using Chickpeas Etc. Also, for good measure, you can even find Various different Fermented Recipes HERE for Homemade Kombucha, Kefir, Kimchi Etc. This Collection includes Recipes for Lentils, Chickpeas and different types of Beans HERE (192) I will also add my Collection for Vegetarian and Vegan Recipes (400+ Combined) HERE for those who are so inclined or would like to Try......and Various Recipes using Free-Range Eggs HERE for those who are Interested, including Egg Baked Casseroles and Homemade Crustless Quiche (they're Easy and you don't have the Pastry to worry about) Oh and, I also have a Collection of Recipes for Ancient Grains and Quinoa HERE (it has Spelt and Khorasan etc) for Extra good measure, here is a Collection for Patties, Burgers & Rissoles HERE that helps with Combining different Vegetarian Proteins. I have Collections for Assorted Savoury Bakes; Dips, Sauces, Salsas & Dressings; Salads and Side Dishes; and More, See HERE. All on Copy Me That. A really Nice American Girl runs it, who didn't want to lose another Recipe (she is a Program Designer) she has a generous Free Membership and Paid Membership. You won't miss Soy!
This Weekend, I will place an Article about an uncommon Ancient Grain in my Blog, called Acha/Fonio that is a good Balanced Source of Veggie Protein with all 9 Aminos (components of Whole Protein) it's a small Seed-Grain like Millet and Quinoa. You can prepare it similar to Cous Cous OR Sago as a Healthy Alternative to Rice if you like. It gives you an Option OR you can use it alternately with Rice or Porridge (Organic Oats) did you know that OATS must Always be Organic - to guard against the use of Toxic RoundUp Glyphosate? You should always select Rolled Oats OR Steel Cut Oats in the Organic Range because Quick Oats are pretty much Devoid of Nutrients. About 90% of Breakfast Cereals are laden with Sugar and the so-called few Vitamins they "Fortify" them with are Synthetic - often causing more harm than good. Organic Oats and Fonio give you Healthy Homemade Alternatives to Cheapskate Devitalised Cereals at Rip-Off Prices. You can store your own stash of Cashew Pieces, Almond Flakes and Dried Fruits that won't chip your teeth, to add to your Oats or Fonio, and boycott the Cereal Con-Merchants hey?
There's Plenty to keep you busy. Have Fun - Do Enjoy!
ALL 3 OF THESE ADVOCATES ARE VERY KEEN ON PROTECTING
INDIVIDUALS and FAMILIES, AS I AM.