Is Soy Really a Health Food?

Is Soy Really a Health Food?
by Winnie Abramson

hormonal problems. I suggest limiting these in your diet. A little tofu here and there is
fine, but consider cutting back if you eat it quite frequently. As for soy milk and soy
protein products, I suggest limiting these, as well.

Miso and tempeh, on the other hand, are fermented soy foods and can be enjoyed
much more often. These are very good for you. Edamame (also known as young
green soybeans) are also a natural healthy form of soy. You can put these types of
soy in your diet and know that you are doing your body a favor. Miso is loaded with
healthy live cultures and it is wonderful in soups, dips, and dressings. Tempeh has a
unique flavor and is an excellent source of vegetarian protein. Boiled and salted
edamame make a great snack enjoyed by children and adults alike, and here is a
recipe for an edamame salad I really enjoy

Edamame Salad.

1 pound bag frozen shelled edamame (young green soybeans), boiled for 3-4
minutes, then drained and cooled

2 thinly sliced green onions

Dressing:

1 Tb. brown rice vinegar

2 Tb. toasted sesame oil

2 Tb. wheat-free tamari

1/2-1 cup chopped fresh cilantro or mint leaves --optional

Toss all ingredients together in a large bowl. Adjust seasonings to taste. Serves 2-4.

About The Author

Winnie Abramson, ND is a naturopathic doctor. She is the founder of
, a website that helps readers improve their
health and decrease their environmental impact with holistic nutrition and green living
tips, healthy recipes, organic gardening advice and photos, and links to eco-friendly
companies. She also puts out a free monthly newsletter called "Healthy and Green":
you can !

Though many people think of soy as
being a very healthy food, there are
some potential problems with certain
forms of soy, and if you are
interested in nutrition, it's important
to be aware of these.

There are two kinds of soy foods.
One type is generally referred to as
"unfermented", and in this category is
tofu, soy milk, soy protein bars and
soy protein powder. These soy foods
are quite processed and not all that
natural or healthy. Overconsumption
of these types of soy foods has been
linked to hypothyroidism and other

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on
this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural
remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.