Is Soy Bad for You? (505)261-1253
Preventing You From Losing Fat?
Controversial food
When it comes to controversial foods, soy is king. Tofu, miso, and edamame just to name a few are all soy based products. If you are like most of the American population and follow what the government and food industry tell you, you probably still believe that soy has some health benefits. And you may think it’s a good idea to consume these products. After all, what could be bad about the innocent soy milk or tasteless tofu?
What is Soy Anyway?
Soy is a legume that is grown and highly chemically processed, even the “organic” versions. Virtually all soybeans grown today are genetically modified. Our body finds it difficult to digest these genetically modified foods, therefore, they are stored as body fat. I know, I know, red meat is bad. It contains too much fat which is bad for the heart and waistline right? Well not so fast my friend. This is so far-fetched and you think you may be following a healthy diet because you are consuming foods such as, tofu, soy milk, and the good ol’ tofurkey.
No!! You are not following a healthy diet because soy contains large amounts of biologically active compounds called isoflavones, which function as phytoestrogens. Plant-based compounds that can activate estrogen receptors in the human body. Which in turn, effectively raises your estrogen levels and therefore lowers your testosterone levels. Those hormones are in competition so more of one means less of the other. Messing up your estrogen levels has devastating effects for men and women.
Harmful to Men?
Improper balance of testosterone to estrogen in men can lead to a lower libido, fat accumulation around the waist, growth of the prostate and loss of energy, stamina and virility and even man boobs (gynecomastia).
Harmful to Women?
Having abnormally high levels of estrogen doesn’t mean you’ll be more of a woman. It could disrupt your periods, fertility and put you at risk for breast cancer.
In conclusion, soy is harmful to the body and could be the reason you are holding on to the body fat that you have been fighting so hard to lose. The isoflavones found in soy can activate and/or inhibit estrogen receptors in the body, which can disrupt the body’s normal function making it impossible for you to shed those extra pounds. For more information on weight training, getting in shape, or if you are frustrated with your current physique and looking to hire a personal trainer, call us today (505) 261-1253.
