What can you tell me about the components of soybeans called isoflavones?!
Answers: On a molecular level, I've read that they're similar to the female sex hormone estrogen, so similar that they can bind to estrogen receptors in the body. I understand research is continuing, but I've developed a thyroid problem, yet I'm approaching the age of menopause, so I can't determine whether I should be limiting soy in my diet or boosting it.
From the research I've found on the web, it appears that studies have shown soybean products to be a problem ONLY in humans who were iodine deficient.
Iodized salt is the primary food source of iodine, however Iodine is also widely available in seafood; and the vegetable Kelp.
A deficiency in iodine alone can cause thyroid problems. This is a particularly interesting article.
http://www.qfac.com/articles/august/iodi...
There seems to be a lot of information on the link between iodine, thyroid, menopause and soy. If you google all 4 together you will have plenty of information available to browse through.
I'm sure your doctor will be able to advise you further.
Why do people give you a thumbs down for a well-answered question?
This has been a big issue with some friends of mine who read some fringe studies against soy and now won't hardly touch the stuff. The basis of the problem is that we are talking about the smallest amounts of harmful trace elements of the sort that you can not avoid simply because you are alive. A few conspiracy theorist types point to these trace elements and magnify their impact (and mind you these are hardly the worst substances in the world -- not like a dioxin or something). Anyway... the article I found for them was written by the guy whom I consider to be the preeminent vegetarian nutritionist. His name is John Robbins and he wrote the very popular "Diet for a New America." I'll provide the link to that page as my source and you'll understand what I'm talking about a little bit better after reading his article. Cheers!
Im not sure whether you should limit or boost your soy consumption... i havent looked into this one as its generally considered a female one. personally i try to stear clear of soy and soy beans as there is plenty of other long term tested alternatives for the nutrients it has. plus im keen on balance and variety.
however, there is one thing i will say, and that is that 'soy' products are a far cry from a 'soy bean'.
i try not to eat processed foods as i think they are bad for the body.
"Other dietary sources of isoflavones include chick pea (biochanin A), alfalfa (formononetin and coumestrol), and peanut (genistein)."
honestly, soy is a fairly new food, in at least as research into long term and heavy consumption goes...
if i was to do decide to limit or boost my diet in this area i would go for balanced varied whole food sources. chic peas, alfalfa and peanuts have been big components of human diets for years. even if i was limiting consumption, i would still want variety.
Good Luck : )
Research studies show that Isoflavones are natural antitoxidants and have the following potential health benefits.
1. Ease menopause symptoms.
2. Reduce heart disease risk.
3. Protect against prostate problems.
4. Improve bone health.
5. Reduce cancer risk.
Sources: www.isoflavones.info/