We shall See! I found an Article by a Renowned Natural Practicing Scientist recently who is Very Good with a Lot of Things to do with Foods, Diet and Nutrition who likes Soyabeans and I found it baffling because "he would know better" I said to myself
in astonishment. Then I realised, he is Asian and lives in a Western Country.
So there's obviously personal sentiments involved. I try not to do that with Research and Articles I place on my Websites. And being an Independent Natural Health Researcher (Part-Time) makes me Keen to keep to True Facts, and Balanced Info
compared to some Professionals I've seen out there. They make those Unscrupulous Manufacturers very happy, I'm sure. And in some instances, they are paid Big Bucks to Endorse Soy, Canola and Seed Oils that are Compromising people's Health - believe it or not - this has been going on for Decades "behind your backs" and is Nothing New to Natural Health Researchers like myself.
And what is really grievious to Dedicated Researchers is when some "Health Professionals" have a "Blind Spot" regarding SOY that stems from Early Misinformation they have not Corrected or Cared to do so. Because people are Counting on them for Guidance, makes it Reprehensible - in my books. I was "Quick to Adapt" when I first learnt the Truth about SOY. I did not Resist that, I Embraced it for my Protection and that of people my Work Reaches. We must Always Practice DUE CARE how we Influence people. That is No Small Responsibility - it can be Huge - do not take lightly. Some do in the Name of Money. I've wept at my Screen sometimes when Researching, and I have a sense of Clean Healthy Anger Rise Up in me to do something about it, which is why I am writing this Article (I have others on this Website)
A Word of Good Advice: Even when there is Seemingly Equal "For and Against Facts" about a specific Food - in this case Soy - you should always "Err on the Side of Caution" that is considered to be Wise Decision Making when it comes to Your Health and Your Family. Those who fail to do this or are easily influenced are often sorry at a later date because Toxicity from "Certain Foods" Accumulate in our System over time, causing Distressing Symptoms and should not be Underestimated.
As far back as 2012, there were Articles like Soy, Soy: The Great Big Marketing Ploy? and Can You Trust Soy Or Is It A Ploy? on the Internet concerning the Prevalence of SOY in So Many Foods and Groceries, to the point it is getting So Frustrating to so many of us. YES?
I'm going to place Details here on this Page for 3 Favorite Leading Natural Health Advocates I have respected through the Years I use quite often for Reference when Checking certain things. They are Dr Joseph Mercola, Dr Josh Axe and Dr Eric Berg. Some of you may well recognise their names, and I wholeheartedly recommend their work. Joseph Mercola has more Extensive Info on SOY than Anyone - including the Natural Practicing Scientist I mentioned.
Dr. Josh Axe
He generally advises Caution with Soy, recommending that it be consumed Occasionally Only in Moderation in its Organic, Fermented, or minimally processed forms. He warns that most Conventional, Non-Organic Soy in the U.S.A and certain Countries is Genetically Modified (GMO), Highly Processed, and potentially Linked to Adverse Health Effects, including Hormonal Imbalances, Digestive Issues, and Allergies.
Key takeaways from Dr. Axe regarding SOY include:
- Preferred Forms: He recommends fermented soy products like Natto, Tempeh, and Miso, which are considered more digestible and nutrient-dense.
- Avoid Processed Soy: He advises Avoiding Processed Soy Products, such as Soy Protein Isolate found in Protein Bars, Mock Meats (Vegetarian/Vegan) and conventional Soy Milk.
- GMO Concerns: He warns that Conventional Soy is largely Genetically Engineered (GMOs) and often contains residues of the Toxic Herbicide Glyphosate.
- Hormonal Impact: Due to High Isoflavone (Phytoestrogen) content, he suggests Limiting Soy Intake to Avoid potential Disruptions to Hormonal Balance.
- Soy Sauce Alternative: He recommends replacing traditional soy sauce with Coconut Aminos, citing them as a healthier, gluten-free, and non-GMO alternative.
While he advises caution, Dr. Axe notes that an occasional Organic, Non-GMO Whole Soya Bean meal can be included in a Balanced Diet (strictly in moderation).
Dr. Josh Axe takes a Nuanced View of Soy, distinguishing between highly processed GMO soy (which he warns against) and Organic Fermented Soy (which he recommends).
The "Stay Away" List
Dr. Axe advises avoiding most conventional soy products found in Western diets because over 90% of U.S. soy is genetically modified and heavily treated with glyphosate. He suggests avoiding:
- Soy Protein Isolate & TVP: Often found in Protein Bars and "Fake Meats," these are highly processed and may contain Chemical Solvents like Hexane.
- Unfermented Soy: Tofu (non-organic) and Soy Milk can contain Antinutrients like Lectins and Phytates that may Block Mineral Absorption and Irritate the Gut.
- Soybean Oil: High in Omega-6 Fatty Acids (way out of balance) which can contribute to Chronic Inflammation.
- Conventional Soy Sauce: Often contains Gluten, MSG, and High Sodium Levels; he recommends Coconut Aminos as an alternative.
The Recommended "Superfoods"
He specifically advocates for Organic and Fermented Soy Varieties, which he says are easier to digest and contain probiotics that support Gut Health.
- Natto: High in Vitamin K2 and the Enzyme Nattokinase, which supports heart health .
- Tempeh: A fermented "complete protein" that provides a healthy meat alternative with Probiotic benefits.
- Miso: Traditionally fermented and rich in nutrients.
Dr. Eric Berg
He generally advises against consuming Soy, particularly processed Soy Protein Isolate, calling it one of the Worst Proteins due to Heavy Metal Contamination (Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium), Hexane processing, and Nutrient Loss. He highlights that Soy contains Isoflavones that can Disrupt Hormonal Balance, leading to Feminizing Effects in Men.
Key points regarding Dr. Berg's view on SOY include:
- Hormonal Disruption: Soy contains Phytoestrogens (Isoflavones) that mimic Estrogen in the body, which can Negatively affect Hormonal balance, specifically causing issues like breast growth or reduced sperm count in men.
- Processing Concerns: Dr. Berg argues that Processed Soy Products are often high in Inflammatory Omega-6 Fatty Acids.
- Health Hazards: He has referred to Soy Protein Isolate as the "number 1 worst protein in the world" due to Contaminants, the use of Hexane, and Sodium Hydroxide in production.
- Recommendation: He advises against Soy, suggesting it can contribute to Inflammation and is not a "Health Food".
Dr Eric Berg is generally critical of Modern Soy Products for a good reason, often categorizing them as some of the "Worst" Foods for your Health due to Processing Methods and Hormonal Concerns. However, he distinguishes between Refined Soy and Traditional Fermented Versions.
His Primary Arguments Against Soy Include:
- Refinement & Chemicals: He identifies Soy Protein Isolate (SPI) as a Highly Processed "Unnatural" Protein. He claims it is often extracted using Hexane, a Petroleum-Derived Solvent linked to Liver and Neurological Issues.
- Hormonal Impact: Berg warns that Soy contains Phytoestrogens (Isoflavones) that mimic Estrogen in the body. In his view, Excessive Intake can lead to Hormonal Imbalances, such as reduced sperm count and breast tissue development in men (gynecomastia).
- GMO Concerns: He notes that the vast majority of Soy is Genetically Modified and treated with Glyphosate, which he links to Gut Inflammation and "Leaky Gut".
- Antinutrients: Unfermented Soy contains Phytic Acid and Enzyme Inhibitors that Berg says can block the Absorption of essential minerals like Zinc, Calcium, and Magnesium.
- Inflammatory Oils: He classifies Soybean Oil as a dangerous Seed Oil high in Omega-6 Fatty Acids, which he claims contributes to Chronic Inflammation and Liver "rusting".
The Exception: Fermented Soy
Berg approves of Fermented Soy in Moderation, provided it is Organic and Non-GMO.
He recommends:
- Natto: High in Vitamin K2 and beneficial for Circulation.
- Tempeh & Miso: The fermentation process Reduces Antinutrients and makes them More Digestible.
He generally advises against consuming Soy, particularly Processed Soy Protein Isolate, calling it one of the Worst Proteins due to Heavy Metal contamination (Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium), Hexane Processing, and Nutrient Loss. He highlights that Soy contains Isoflavones that can Disrupt Hormonal Balance, leading to Feminizing Effects in Men.
Key points regarding Dr. Berg's view on Soy include:
- Hormonal Disruption: Soy contains Phytoestrogens (Isoflavones) that mimic Estrogen in the body, which can negatively affect Hormonal Balance, specifically causing issues like breast growth or reduced sperm count in men.
- Processing Concerns: Dr. Berg argues that Processed Soy Products are often High in Inflammatory Omega-6 Fatty Acids.
- Health Hazards: He has referred to Soy Protein Isolate as the "Number 1 Worst Protein in the World" due to Contaminants, the use of Hexane, and Sodium Hydroxide in production.
- Recommendation: He advises against Soy, suggesting it can contribute to Inflammation and is Not a "Health Food" as many have been led to believe!
Dr Eric Berg is generally critical of Modern Soy Products, often categorizing them as some of the "Worst" Foods for your Health due to Processing Methods and Hormonal Concerns. However, he distinguishes between Refined Soy and Traditional Fermented Versions.
His Primary Arguments Against Soy Include:
- Refinement & Chemicals: He identifies Soy Protein Isolate (SPI) as a Highly Processed "Unnatural" Protein. He claims it is often extracted using Hexane, a Petroleum-Derived Solvent linked to Liver and Neurological Issues.
- Hormonal Impact: Berg warns that SOY contains Phytoestrogens (Isoflavones) that mimic Estrogen in the body. In his professional view, Excessive Intake can lead to Hormonal Imbalances, such as reduced sperm count and breast tissue development in men (gynecomastia).
- GMO Concerns: He notes that the Vast Majority of Soy is Genetically Modified and treated with Glyphosate, which he links to Gut Inflammation and "Leaky Gut".
- Antinutrients: Unfermented Soy contains Phytic Acid and Enzyme Inhibitors that Berg says can Block the Absorption of Essential Minerals like Zinc, Calcium, and Magnesium.
- Inflammatory Oils: He classifies Soybean Oil as a dangerous Seed Oil high in Omega-6 Fatty Acids, which he claims contributes to Chronic Inflammation and Liver "rusting".
The Exception: Fermented Soy
Berg approves of Fermented Soy in Moderation, provided it is Organic and Non-GMO.
He recommends:
- Natto: High in Vitamin K2 and beneficial for Circulation.
- Tempeh & Miso: The fermentation process Reduces Antinutrients and makes them More Digestible.
Dr Joseph Mercola
Dr. Joseph Mercola generally Advises Against the consumption of Most Soy Products, strongly distinguishing between.
Unfermented and Fermented Soy: He argues that the Health Risks of Modern, Unfermented Soy Products far Outweigh any Potential Benefits.
Here are the key points of his perspective:
- Dangers of Unfermented Soy: Mercola warns that Unfermented Soy (Soy Milk, Tofu, Soy Protein Isolate, Soybean Oil) can lead to Serious Health Issues, including Thyroid Dysfunction, Cognitive Decline, Reproductive Disorders and Immune System Breakdown.
- High Phytoestrogen Content: He argues that the High Levels of Phytoestrogens (plant-based Estrogens) in Soy can Disrupt the Endocrine System (Our Glands) with special concern for Infants, stating that Soy Formula provides a Hormone Load equivalent to multiple Birth Control Pills a day.
- Processing and Toxicity: He claims that the processing of Soy Protein creates Toxic, Carcinogenic Substances, such as Nitrosamines, and free glutamic acid (MSG).
- Fermented Soy Exception: Mercola is in favor of traditional, Fermented Soy Products, such as Miso, Tempeh, Natto, and Organic Soy Sauce. He notes that Fermentation Reduces the Anti-Nutrients and makes the Soy Digestible, providing a good source of Vitamin K2.
- Thyroid Issues: Mercola frequently advises that those with pre-existing Thyroid Conditions should Avoid Soy Altogether, as it can Inhibit Thyroid Performance.
Summary of View: He advises Avoiding most Processed Soy found in the Western diet, calling it an "Industrial Waste Product" that is often Genetically Modified (GMOs)
Dr Joseph Mercola is a vocal critic of Unfermented Soy, claiming its Health Risks far Outweigh any benefits. He primarily differentiates between "Modern" Processed Soy and "Traditional" Fermented Soy.
His Key Arguments Include:
- Fermented vs. Unfermented: Mercola advocates Only for Fermented Soy Products like Natto, Miso, and Tempeh, which he claims provide Vitamin K2 and are easier to digest.
- Hormonal Concerns: He warns that Soy's High Phytoestrogen content acts as an Endocrine Disruptor, potentially leading to infertility, low libido, and developmental issues in children.
- Infant Formula: He strongly advises Against Soy-Based Infant Formula, suggesting it delivers a Hormone Load Equivalent to Several Birth Control Pills daily - incredible as that may sound.
- Anti-Nutrients and Toxins: Mercola claims Unfermented Soy contains Trypsin Inhibitors that interfere with Protein Digestion and Phytic Acid that blocks Mineral Absorption.
Processing Issues: He argues that Modern Soy Processing (like that used for soy milk or isolated soy protein) involves Toxic Solvents and results in Carcinogenic Byproducts.
For Good Measure, I will add a fourth but not least, respected Natural Health Advocate to the three a fore mentioned.
Dr William Davis
Cardiologist and Author of Wheat Belly, advises consuming Fermented Soy in moderate quantities, like Tempeh, Miso, and Natto to reduce the impact of Lectins and Phytates. He cautions against Heavily Processed Soy Products, such as Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, due to High Omega-6 Fatty Acid content that Contributes to Inflammation.
Key details regarding Dr. Davis's view on Soy:
- Preferred Forms: He recommends Fermented Soy (e.g., Tempeh, Miso, Natto) because Fermentation breaks down Lectins and Phytates.
- Avoid Processed Soy: He cautions against using Soybean Oil, a common source of High Omega-6 Linoleic Acid, which he links to Inflammation, Heart Disease Risk, and Cognitive Issues.
- Limitations: He suggests that while Soymilk is liked as a Dairy Alternative, it is best consumed only occasionally in limited quantities. And Strictly Organic!
- Glyphosate Concerns: He notes that Most Soy is Genetically Modified (GMO) and, therefore, Heavily Treated with Toxic Glyphosate.
Here is a breakdown of his views:
- Avoid Soy Oils: Dr Davis strongly advises avoiding concentrated sources of omega-6 fatty acids, including Soybean Oil, due to their Inflammatory Nature and High Unbalanced Linoleic Acid content.
- Fermented Soy is Specified: He recommends consuming Soy in Modest Quantities of Fermented Forms, such as Tofu, Tempeh, Miso, and Natto.
- Anti-Nutrient Concerns: Fermentation is key in his view because it degrades Lectins and Phytates, which can otherwise exert Adverse Effects on Intestinal Health.
- Limited Processed Soy: He warns against Heavily Processed Soy found in UPFs (ultra-processed foods) or "Fake Meat" Alternatives.
- Conditional Use of Whole Soy: While items like Edamame and Soymilk are less processed oils, he suggests they are better Avoided due to potential Anti-Nutrients.
- Hormonal Disruption: Dr Davis has highlighted that Soy Isoflavones can Act as Endocrine Disruptors, though this is a Broader Concern shared by Several Experts in his Field.
A real Caution here for those who like Schnitzels from Supermarkets and Take Aways and Restaurants - they are always Laden with SOY OIL or Canola Oil which is Really Bad too (Not the healthy Oil they Claim it is - Far from it) please be Advised. Also, most times you see 'Vegetable Oil' on product Labels, those Companies have used Soy Oil. The term "Vegetable" Oil is one of the Biggest Marketing PLOYS out there. So Misleading - deliberately. An Overlooked Culprit in many people's Diet, plus SEED OILS (Soy Oil, Canola, Sunflower and Safflower) are a Major Contributor to Overweight; Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome disorders. In fact, in recent times, they have been noted by Fully Informed and Honest Professionals as THE WORST Ultra-Processed Food (UPFs) out there, on the Market.
I strongly advise that you consider (True Unadulterated) Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Avocado Oils (some Growers Cheat by adding Seed oils when Harvests are Small) and Coconut Oil and Ghee in place of the UPFs Seed Oils, that have been deliberately Villainised decades ado by the Corrupt Seed Oil Industry to channel All Sales to their Dangerous Products. So DODGY of them.
You can have Chickpeas in Moderation in place of Soyabeans if you like. They have some Lectins and Phytates that are usually alright for people - some can't tolerate them. And I'm happy to let you know that I made an Exciting Discovery 3 Years ago that Pressure Cooking is Good for Reducing Lectins Phytates in Grains. I will add an Article about the Benefits of Pressure Cooking in a few days that may be Helpful to some of you. Hey? And it isn't Dodgy Info like Micro-Oven Manufacturers deliberately get some Scientists and Nutritionists to say on the Internet.
They will Never entice me to Sell my Name to give Misleading Information. I am a HEALTH Advocate as an Independent Researcher. I detest their Dirty Deeds - they are So Corrupt (people who do that sort of thing) I've had two Serious Medical Induced Disorders decades ago - I'm into Protecting People to the best of my ability, without financial incentives and my Websites are all Free because that's a Passion with me. I Enjoy that:)
ALL 4 OF THESE ADVOCATES ARE VERY KEEN ON PROTECTING
INDIVIDUALS and FAMILIES, AS I AM.