For years now, the wholistic health world has been promoting soy-based products as a good source of protein. Various health benefits, such as cancer prevention and hormonal support, have also been associated with soy. These claims have been predominately attributed to the isoflavones or phytoestrogens found in soy. In fact, the general recommendation has been to consume at least 30 grams of soy per day. We at In Good Health promoted soy protein powders, which have since become hugely popular.
The reason we have recently backed off on our previous recommendations is because recent research has raised some questions about the efficacy and extended use of soy. These studies indicate that the frequent use soy for an extended period of time may now be linked to some endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism and other hormonal imbalances. As a result of this recent information, we no longer promote soy-based products as a nutritional supplement.
Please note that the information upon which we are now basing our recommendation is by no means definitive. There is still a large body of research that indicates no harmful effects from the regular consumption of soy. This is simply a matter of too many questions being raised for us to continue promoting its use. We have taken similar positions on substances like ephedra and sucralose long before the industry officially and publicly recognizes a problem. As with any nutritional substance, we can only make our recommendations based on what we feel is the most credible information currently available.
With regard to protein supplements or powders, we recommend you avoid the soy based varieties. They contain highly concentrated amounts of isoflavones which will likely increase your chances of developing a hormonal imbalance. If you have been or are thinking of using a protein powder, we recommend the a whey or rice based protein supplement to prevent such problems. Whey has the highest biological value of any protein and the good quality whey protein products contain no lactose or casein "â the two components of milk that typically cause food sensitivities or allergies. However, not all whey proteins are the same. We have analyzed most of the whey protein products currently on the market and would be happy to give you our recommendations if you call us here at the studio.
