Despite soy’s popularity, emerging research and mounting health issues have scientists challenging whether or not soy is actually a marketing bonanza disguised as a health food. A recent survery reveals 85% of the US populatlion believes soy is healthy. Sales of this waste product were $4 billion in 2007 and 69% of worlds protein meal consumption comes from soy????
Fermentated soy is the only healthy form of soy.
Fermented soy (miso, matto, tempeh) goes thru an extensive process before being considered fit for consumption. Beans are washed and soaked in water up to 20 hours, then steamed for 6 more hours. Then beans are exposed to specfic bacteria increasing their tolerance to extreme temperatures. Then they are sealed and fermented at 104 degree F for 24 hours, then cooled and aged for about one week. This process reinforces amino acids essential for breaking down the proteins for optimal absorption in the body.
Unfermented soy takes the form of tofu, burgers, cheese, munchies, infant formula, soymilk, protein or meal replacement shakes, protein bars and even as cheap filler in many fast food restaurant meat products.
Concerns or problems with unfermented soy:
- Inadequate protein absorption: body can’t use it despite what the nutritiion labels say about protein contents
- One of the top 8 food allergies
- Thyroid dysfunction: The phytic acid in soy inhibits the body’s iodine absorption which can lead to thyroid dysfunctions which can result in hampered immunity, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, weight gain plus more.
- Men and phytoestrongen: phytoestrogen mimic female estrogen and men who consume unfermented soy regularly had significantly smaller sperm count.
- Baby Formula: Babies are at highest risk during key developmental stage.premature puberty in girls and interferring with boys going thru puberty.
- Cancer: Studies show soy to be ineffective as a cancer prevention agent.
- Heart Health: FDA shows soy to improve heart health, but studies by Dr. Jones “that research culled over the past 10 years does not offer enough evidence to warrant the previous heart health claims according to today’s standards”
Unfermented soy is harmful and consider a waste product. READ nutrition labels and you will be shocked at how much foods contain soy.
The complete articles can be read in “Onfitness magazine” May/June 2009, page 68 & 69
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