Is there any concern over the use of SOY and phytoestrogens?
There is little, if no, science to support the many misconceptions that exist today regarding soy. For example, some anti-soy groups claim that diets high in soy are thought to cause attention-deficit disorder or hyperactivity because of the phytoestrogens in soy. Concerns have also been raised about the potential negative effects of phytoestrogens in soy, especially the component of phytoestrogens called isoflavone, on sexual development and reproduction, neurobehavioral development, immune function, and thyroid function in infants. These claims cannot be scientifically substantiated. In fact, more than 300 foods contain phytoestrogens. These are primarily plant foods such as seeds, grains and beans, including soybeans. Phytoestrogens are found in the protein portion of soybeans. Phytoestrogens consists of several nonsteroidal estrogens, including isoflavones. The moderate consumption of foods containing phytoestrogens is generally a healthy addition to a person’s diet. There is a tre
