Soy Protein Side Effects

Proteins are one of the most essential nutrients required by human beings as they are essential for building muscles and for tissue repair in the body. Body builders and children in the growing stage are specially advised to include high amounts of proteins in their diet. Proteins are derived from a variety of food sources like eggs, fish, meat, beans and legumes. Soy is also one of the richest sources of proteins. All the soy products like the soybeans, powder, protein, tofu, etc. contain good amounts of proteins and these foods are recommended to people wanting to have a high protein diet. However, there are several claims of the dangers associated with soy. Let us know more on it.

Overview on Soy Protein

Soy protein is the best substitute for proteins for people who do not wish to go for meat and meat based products. Therefore, soy protein is one of the best sources of proteins among all the vegetarian options. Secondly, it is associated with several healthy benefits like reducing cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart diseases. It is also believed to alleviate the symptoms of menopause in women and also reduce the risk of osteoporosis in older people. Similarly, as mentioned above, body builders are also advised to go for soy proteins and soy products to gain all the necessary amounts of protein required for building muscle. However, there are several potential soy protein side effects which makes inclusion of this product in the diet questionable.

Side Effects of Soy Protein

Firstly, people should note that most of the dangers of soy are observed in people who are allergic to it. People allergic to it can suffer from indigestion and disorders of the pancreas and the gastrointestinal tract on consuming soy protein and supplements. However, if people are not allergic to soy, they may not suffer from severe and immediate side effects. But, on the other hand, there are potential negative effects associated with soy protein which cannot be ignored.

• Soy is believed to be associated with thyroid diseases. It contains a substance known as goitrogens which suppresses the function of thyroid, resulting in thyroid diseases.
• Secondly, soy protein contains isoflavones which is believed to be a carcinogen, i.e., cancer causing agent which can give rise to cancer.
• Another effect of hydrolyzed soy protein is that, it is believed to reduce the levels of testosterone in males. It is also believed to lead to an imbalance in the estrogen-testosterone levels in men.
• On the other hand, soy protein is also claimed to decrease sperm count in males. Men consuming soy have a lesser sperm concentration as compared to those not consuming it.
• Lastly, it is also believed to affect memory, leading to memory loss and forgetfulness.

It is also true that not all people suffer from these side effects. However, it is safer to consult the doctor if you are including soy protein in large quantities in your diet. Take care!