The harmful effects of soy milk - the 'controversial' drink

Soy milk is a popular choice in the West and is also a traditional drink in China, Japan and other Asian countries.

While some people choose to drink soy milk because it is lactose-free or “lactose-free”, others choose to drink soy milk for several ethical reasons such as animal welfare or contributing to reducing environmental pollution.

Soy milk is rich in protein and other important nutrients. Some studies have shown that men who drink a lot of soy milk or eat a lot of soy products may reduce their risk of prostate cancer later in life.

But soy milk is more than that. Even nutritionists in Europe call it one of the most controversial drinks in the world!

Soy milk. Illustration photo

Soy milk can cause endocrine disorders

Soy milk contains a large number of bioactive compounds - isoflavones. They can be considered endocrine disruptors, substances that can affect the function of hormones in the body, reducing the activity of estrogen (female hormones). In short, soy milk can activate or inhibit the activity of female sex hormones and can cause endocrine dysfunction.

Increased risk of breast cancer in women

Isoflavones may help ease menopausal symptoms and reduce the risk of osteoporosis in older women. However, this is still controversial and many believe that soy milk does more harm than good.

There are some animal studies that show soy milk increases the risk of breast cancer. There are also human studies that show soy milk can stimulate the growth and activity of breast cells. These cells have a very high potential to become cancerous.

There are also many studies showing that soy milk can cause delayed menstruation or menorrhagia in women.

Soy milk increases the risk of breast cancer. Illustration photo

Can damage "manhood"

Experts studied 99 men who attended an infertility clinic. Men who drank soy milk and used soy products for at least three years were found to have the lowest sperm counts.

However, many people also believe that soy milk can reduce male sex hormone levels, but its effects are very weak and inconsistent.

Interferes with thyroid function

Inflavones inhibit the function of the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which is needed to produce thyroid hormones.

A study in 37 Japanese people showed that consuming 30 grams of soybeans for 3 months may increase thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, a cause of impaired thyroid function.

Many people experience symptoms of hypothyroidism such as fatigue, constipation, drowsiness, or an enlarged thyroid gland. These symptoms disappear when the person stops consuming soy milk and soy products.

However, several studies have shown that soy milk may have little or no effect on thyroid function.

Bad influence on children

In one study, girls who consumed soy formula had more breast tissue two years earlier than girls who consumed breast milk or formula.

Another study also showed that girls who consumed soy milk often entered puberty earlier than normal girls. Or using soy milk can prolong the menstrual cycle and increase menstrual pain in adulthood.

Clearly, breast milk is the best choice for infants and newborns. For women who cannot breastfeed, dairy diets are better than soy milk.

Recommendations when using soy milk

-Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding should not use soy milk and soy products.

- Limit the use of soy milk for young children. And should only be used when there is no other choice.

According to Family & Society