Soy products are in. Chinese people are almost everywhere on the table, tofu, soy milk, bean skin, yuba...... Known as "plant-based meat", they are rich in high-quality protein and a variety of nutrients. But you know what? For some people, reducing or avoiding soy products may be as simple as preventing gout, and may also alleviate some unexpected health problems.
1. Reduces gas and indigestion
Legumes contain oligosaccharides (e.g., raffinose, stachyose), which are difficult to break down by digestive enzymes in the intestines and are prone to fermentation in the intestines, producing large amounts of gas. For people with weakened gastrointestinal function, frequent intake of soy products may lead to bloating, burping, and even diarrhea. Reducing the intake of soy products reduces the burden on the intestines and may improve digestion.
2. Reduce the risk of thyroid dysfunction
The isoflavones and phytic acid in soy may interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis and metabolism, especially in people with inadequate iodine intake. Long-term consumption of large amounts of soy products may affect thyroid function and lead to metabolic abnormalities. Reducing your intake of soy products, especially unfermented soy products (e.g., soy milk and tofu), may help maintain thyroid health.
3. Relieves estrogen sensitivity
Soy isoflavones are phytoestrogens that may be beneficial in some women, but for people who are sensitive to estrogen (e.g., breast hyperplasia, uterine fibroids), excessive intake may stimulate the growth of hormone-dependent tissues. Reducing the intake of soy products may result in more stable hormone levels and associated symptoms may be relieved.
4. Improve skin sensitivity and inflammation
Some people are allergic or intolerant to soy protein, which may manifest as itchy skin, eczema, or acne exacerbation. Certain ingredients in soy products may promote inflammation, and with reduced intake, skin condition may improve, especially for people with chronic skin problems.
5. Reduce mineral absorption interference
The phytic acid in soybeans binds to minerals such as calcium, iron, and zinc, reducing their bioavailability. Long-term consumption of large amounts of soy products may affect mineral absorption, especially for people at high risk of anemia or osteoporosis. Reducing the intake of soy products and combining it with foods rich in vitamin C may help improve mineral absorption.
If you find yourself having any of the above problems, you can try the following adjustments:
1. Observe the body's reaction: record the diet and symptoms to see if there is any improvement after reducing soy products.
2. Choose fermented soy products: such as natto, paste, and fermented bean curd, the fermentation process can reduce the content of anti-nutritional factors.
3. With other proteins: replace some soy products with eggs, fish, lean meat, etc., to ensure balanced nutrition.
4. Control your intake: You don't have to quit completely, but you can adjust the frequency and amount to find a balance that suits you.
Soy products are not "bad food", but everyone's body reacts differently. Understanding your body's needs is the key to finding the most suitable eating pattern. The key to health is balance, not blindly following trends. Try tweaking and see how your body gives you!
Tips: The medical science knowledge in the content is for reference only, does not constitute a medication guideline, does not serve as a basis for diagnosis, do not do it yourself without medical qualifications, if you feel unwell, please go to the hospital in time.