Before you reach for that next glass of soy milk or whip up another tofu dish, know what you are serving up.
Soybeans are just that--beans. This makes them a good source of protein and great for people trying to cut back on their meat consumption. Soy is a species of legume that contains significant amounts of amino acids, like alpha-linolenic acid and large amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. Soybeans are also rich in isoflavones called genistein and daidzein.
Soy is widely used ingredient in cosmetics too. Soy lecithin, which is derived from soy beans, is used as an emollient and emulsifier in many cosmetic products, especially moisturizers. This makes the product hydrating and softening to the skin and keeps ingredients from separating. Soy is a natural antioxidant, which are key in ridding the body of harmful free radicals.
But are you getting your fill? You know what they say about too much of a good thing....
Many products in health food stores rely heavily on the versatility of soy, so you could easily be consuming more than you should. Like other beans, soy proteins can be hard to digest, causing gas, bloating and discomfort. Traditional cultures fermented soy before eating it for the specific reason of making it easier to digest.
Soy protein powders are often added to smoothies and protein bars. Dairy-free soy milk, cheese, ice cream and even soy burgers are popular products these days but many of these soy foods are highly processed and contain large amounts of added sugar to make them more palatable. To reap the benefits of soy in your diet, try traditionally prepared (and fermented) miso, tempeh or tofu instead.
A big problem with soy today is the amount of transgenic soy produced. It is estimated that close to 90% of soy today is grown with genetically modified seeds. For an eye-opening look at these "frankenfoods" read Jeffrey Smith's
Seeds of Deception. The long term health effects of consuming transgenic foods are unknown at best and downright scary at their worst. In the mean time, look for non-GMO or certified organic soy products only.
Another issue with soy is the chemical makeup. Soy contains a natural chemical that mimics estrogen in the body. Recent studies have raised questions over whether the ingredients in soy might increase the risk of breast cancer in some women, affect brain function in men and lead to hidden developmental ab-normalities in infants.
So whether you are drinking, eating or applying soy to your skin; buy organic, GMO-free, know the risks and follow directions for use. Like any other food, the less-processed, the better. And remember the old adage: everything in moderation.
Congratulations to Soleo Organics by being named the safest sunscreen by the Environmental Working Group's Cosmetic Safety Database, Skin Deep. Of course, we knew this all the time, that is why Soleo is the ONLY sunscreen we have ever recommended. But that wasn't the only good new that came Soleo's way this week.
