Soy is Toxic

Soy protein is toxic, particularly if it is unfermented, even if it is organic and not genetically modified (most soy is GMO). That means soymilk (and derivatives like yogurt, frozen desserts, and cheese), tofu, edamame, meat substitutes, roasted soynuts, the filler and flavor enhancers in processed foods, and soybean flour are not good for you.

The toxins are numerous: the isoflavones genestein and daidzein which are potent goitrogens (thyroid disruptors) and estrogens (endocrine disruptors), protease inhibitors that impede digestion and cause pancreatic dysfunction, oxalates and phytates that impede mineral absorption, and neurotoxins such as high levels of manganese. Also, despite what the ads say, soy is not a source of quality protein and can stress your kidneys.

It is hidden in processed foods and commercial pet foods. Most baby formulas are made with soymilk. Many years ago soy was not considered a food, but was used only as a nitrogen fixative in soil. It was only cultivated as a food by people of ancient China who were experiencing serious shortages of dietary protein. It was referred to as "the poor man's cow" and it was better than nothing   However, back then, mostly fermented soy was eaten.

The process of fermentation, as with making soy sauce, deactivates some of the toxins. If you insist on eating soy, tempeh (to me it is just moldy soybeans), miso, and natto (a source of certain vitamins but supposedly tastes vile) it is probably safe in moderation.  Too much soy sauce, though, can act like MSG.

The negative effects of soy have been known for many years. (I actually became aware back in the 70's after I experienced adverse effects from experimenting with it.) Big Corporate successfully marks it as a health food because it is cheap to produce and is a financial goldmine.