Harvard alert: This protein may cause “hormonal imbalance”

Tofu, edamame, soy drink, soy sauce and many other options. Presented as a alternative protein source, a soya bean is part of the diet of many people, especially those with a vegan diet.

Do you usually include these foods in your diet? Some say that the side effects of excessive soy consumption can lead to abdominal discomfort and cramps. However, studies of Harvard relate to excessive consumption of this protein source with some hormonal imbalances.

Still, these experts clarify that you do not need to make a radical cut. “Soya is a nutrient-rich protein source that can be safely consumed several times a week, and probably more frequently, since offers health benefits, especially when consumed as an alternative to red and processed meat“, describe.

If, on the one hand, soy is exalted as a healthy food, by helping to prevent osteoporosis and protect against some types of hormonal cancer, such as breast and prostate cancer, on the other hand, these foods tend to be avoided, due to their relationship with thyroid problems, dementia and some types of cancer.

How does soy consumption relate to hormonal imbalances?

Though depend on the general health status of women, these experts reinforce that hormonal imbalance is also related to the processing level of the soybean you consume.

Beansdried or cooked, and edamam are examples of safe and even highly recommended soybean sources, since they are of the least processed options.

Nevertheless, these experts do not rule out hormonal deregulation associated with the consumption of these foods: “As soy may have estrogenic properties, the effects may vary depending on the level of hormones in the body.”.

Premenopausal women may have elevated oestradiol levels (the main form of oestrogen in the human body) than women who have already undergone menopause. In this context, they reveal that soybean can act as an anti-estrogen. Contrary to the effect it produces in postmenopausal women, which it can act like an oestrogen.

In these situations, the effects are not always clear or immediate. However, there are other side effects of soybeans that may be associated with other conditions, such as allergic reactions.

Take note of the most common symptoms associated with an allergic effect. In these circumstances, according to health professionals at WbMed, you should seek immediate medical help.

Here are the symptoms:

Respiratory problems
Heart racing
Fever 
Swollen lymph nodes
Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat
Difficulty swallowing or tightness of the throat
Itchy or rash
Nausea and vomiting
Dizziness, feeling dizzy or fainting
Stomach cramps
Joint pain