Soy milk for health?

Soy milk is a plant-based milk made from soybeans. In modern dietetics, there is debate regarding the benefits of soy milk for human health. In this article, we will look at the positive effects and possible negative effects of soy milk on the body.

Soy milk is made by pureeing pre-soaked soybeans. The resulting mass is boiled, filtered and cooled. Soy milk is used in cooking and is used to make products such as tofu, soy yogurt and milkshakes.

Soy milk contains valuable soy protein, which contains all eight essential amino acids, as well as trace elements. Many varieties are additionally fortified with calcium and vitamin B12, which are also found in cow's milk. Soy milk is easily absorbed by the body and is a healthy and complete alternative to cow's milk.

Soy milk is low in saturated fat and contains no cholesterol. This makes it beneficial for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases. Soy milk also contains sucrose as a major disaccharide, which is broken down into glucose and fructose. It does not contain galactose and can be used as an alternative to breast milk for children with galactosemia.

Soy milk contains isoflavones - organic substances that are beneficial to the human body. Isoflavones may help reduce the risk of breast cancer, prevent osteoporosis and lower blood cholesterol.

Despite the many health benefits of soy milk, the soy industry has been criticized for a number of reasons. The high levels of phytic acid in soybeans bind important nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc during digestion. However, as a comparison, cow's milk significantly slows the absorption of iron and calcium from other non-dairy sources.

A 2008 study found that men whose average daily diet consisted of soy products had lower sperm concentrations. Critics of this study argue that the decrease in sperm concentration is associated with a corresponding increase in ejaculate volume. Additionally, some isoflavones found in soy products can mimic estrogen in the body, which can cause problems in women, especially during menopause.

Some studies also indicate that consuming large amounts of soy products may lead to a decrease in thyroid hormone levels, which can lead to thyroid problems.

Overall, soy milk is a healthy alternative to cow's milk for people who are health-conscious or who don't consume animal products. However, as with any product, soy milk consumption should be moderate and not lead to excess isoflavone intake. It is best to consult a nutritionist to determine the optimal amount of soy milk in your diet.