The Benefits and Problems with Soy

Humans have been eating soy for almost 5,000 years according to information provided by Medline Plus a National Institutes of Health website. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration reports that consuming 25 grams per day of soy protein as part of a low cholesterol diet may reduce the risk of heart disease. Some commercial soybeans are genetically modified. To avoid eating genetically modified soybeans, consume organic soy products. (Ref 4)

Protective Effect on Breast Cancer: Eating a diet characterized by fruit, vegetables and soy has an early-acting protective effect on the development of breast cancer, according to an analysis of clinical data performed by the Department of Environmental Radiological Health Sciences at Colorado State University. The results of the analysis, published in the February 2010 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition", show that the benefit of protection against breast cancer is more strongly associated with a fruit, vegetable, soy dietary pattern than just soy alone.

High in Protein: Soybeans are high in protein. They provide a nutrient rich food containing complete proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. According to information provided by the National Soybean Research Laboratory at the University of Illinois, a quarter-cup of soynuts-roasted soybeans-- provides 17 grams of protein, 14.1 grams of carbohydrates, 9.3 grams of fat and 194 calories. Soybeans are high in protein with nearly 40 percent of calories per serving coming from protein. Unlike other vegetable sources of protein, soy protein provides a complete protein like meat and dairy products.

Soy Allergy: For people with a soy allergy, eating soy products causes an allergic reaction according to information provided by the staff at the Mayo Clinic. Some individuals exhibit uncomfortable, but not serious symptoms including: mouth tingling, hives, itching, runny nose and lightheadedness. More serious allergic reactions may include: swelling of the face, lips, tongue and throat; trouble breathing; vomiting; abdominal pain; fainting and diarrhea. In rare incidences, severe allergic reactions to soy are characterized by anaphylaxis. Individuals experiencing anaphylactic shock exhibit rapid pulse, sever drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness and airway constriction.

Ecological Problems: Irresponsible cultivation of non-organic soybeans in Brazil causes ecological problems. Clearing land to grow soybeans contributes to deforestation, loss of biodiversity and general destabilization of ecosystems that degrade the quality of life for local populations explains Ulrike Bickel a Misereor Human Rights officer. Additionally, the use of pesticides and herbicides in the cultivation of commercial soybeans contributes to water pollution.