Soy contains a cocktail of substances that interfere with many systems of the body and so it may not be the panacea we have all come to believe it could be.

It contains:

• Trypsin inhibitors which interfere with protein digestion
• phyto-oestrogens which disrupt endocrine function and may cause infertility in men and women
• antithyroid agents causing an under active thyroid
• high levels of phytic acid which reduces uptake of calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc
• vitamin B12 analogues which are not absorbed and increase the body’s requirement for Vitamin B12
• high levels of aluminium which is toxic to the nervous system and kidneys.

Five recent studies have shown soy is worthless in treating the menopause. A study in Australia showed that three months of soy supplements of 288 mg daily did not improve menopausal complaints. (Climacteric, 2000; 3:161-7)

For menopausal symptoms it might be more effective to look at homeopathy which offeres benefits without the risk of breast cell proliferation which soy can produce.

Related Information:

1. Soy good