Soy pros and cons

Question
My wife and daughter are thinking of switching to a high soy protein diet and eliminating dairy and meat from there diet as my daughter is lactose intolerant.  I am happy with eating a balanced diet of traditional foods but after reading some alarming information on high soy diets, I am concerned for the health of my wife and daughter.  I read that some studies suggest a high soy diet can create a nutrient defficiency in the body as well as have negative effects on hormones.  Yet, on the other hand, other studies suggest soy is very beneficial.  It is hard to know who to trust.  Like I mentioned earlier, I am happy with my balanced diet, but would like a healthy alternative for my wife and daughter if they decide they cannot tolerate dairy or meat.  What do you think?

Thanks
James

Answer
Dear James,

Soy and soy products is a controversial topic. There are many pros and as many cons about soy consumption. Vegetarians rely on soy as protein source. It also is reputed to be good for women who are menopausal. Soy products are heavily advertised. However, the facts are that soy also:

1) reduces absorption of calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc
2) interferes with protein digestion
3) has the potential to cause infertility, hypothyroidism, thyroid cancer, and  autoimmune thyroid disease
4) increases the body抯 requirement for B12 and vitamin D.
5) contains high levels of aluminium, which is toxic to the nervous system and the kidneys.

I recommend a good popular review of soy pros and cons at life.ca/nl/101/soy.html

Hope it helps,

Tanya Zilberter  

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