Soy Milk Pros and Cons

There is little doubt about the popularity of soy milk which is the most well-known of all dairy alternatives to cow’s milk. There are a number of positive ingredients and attributes to soy’s milk which include vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fiber which has helped garner it a very positive reputation. However, is drinking soy milk right for you?

Although loaded with a tremendous number of positives, there are still some concerns about soy milk that you will want to take into account.

The Pros of Soy Milk

Healthy for Your Heart:
Arguably the most notable benefit in drinking soy milk is how it positively affects the cardiovascular system. Soy milk has no cholesterol and is loaded with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids that have shown to be quite beneficial when it comes to reducing the chances of heart disease. Drinking soy milk on a regular basis can improve the high density lipoproteins (HDL) in the blood which reduces the risks of stroke and heart attacks.

Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy:
One of the more interesting effects of soy milk is how it mimics the functions of estrogen in women. For postmenopausal women who suffer from a lack of estrogen, the phytoestogen in soy milk may help balance out the hormones and reduce many of the side effects that come with this condition. For many women who are undergoing this time in their lives, soy milk offers a safe, healthy and inexpensive alternative to hormone therapy. However, it cannot address women who suffer from severe side effects where a physician will be needed.

Prevent Prostate Cancer:
Studies have shown that regularly drinking soy milk may lower the testosterone levels in the blood and thus lower the risk of contracting prostate cancer.

The Cons of Soy Milk

There are a number of negative factors to take into account before you start drinking soy milk. Although many of these deficits are mild in nature, they can have an effect.

Allergy:
If you are allergic to soy, then you will be allergic to soy milk which may cause swelling, vomiting, diarrhea and hives. In the most severe cases, you may suffer from anaphylactic shock which means a trip to the hospital.

Higher Risk of Breast Cancer:
There have been studies showing that soy milk may increase the risk of breast cancer, although it must be noted that other studies have shown this risk to be reduced. It is true that soy milk may interfere with medications and chemotherapy designed to treat or kill the cancer cells, so if you are a breast cancer patient, you will want to consult with your doctor before drinking soy milk.

Bad Taste:
Soy milk does taste a little like beans which may turn off some people. However, there are different soy milk products on the market which means that you can pick and choose the one that tastes best for you. Just remember that there are additives and sweeteners that change the taste which can add unnecessary calories to the soy milk.

Soy milk can be a good part of your diet if you take the time to weigh the positive and negative aspects.