The Truth About Soy Products

There is so much controversy in the vegan and plant-based community about the consumption of soy products. Is it plant-based and vegan-friendly − absolutely! Is it a healthy alternative − not so much! If you are on this journey and your health is something you’re concerned about, this article is for you, especially if your go-to milk alternative is soy milk.

Although soybeans do have some health benefits, we must remember that most non-organic soy products are brimming with GMOs, causing less nutritional value and more toxic effects due to the chemicals involved in the genetic modification process (1). Soybeans contain compounds like phytate, which may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb vitamins and minerals crucial for vegan and plant-based dietary demands (2). These same anti-nutrient compounds may also cause digestive issues due to a reduction in the gut’s barrier functions resulting in inflammation that causes these digestive problems (3).