I’m constantly hearing arguments about whether soy is or isn’t healthy. The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle.

Here are the arguments.

Soy milk is processed. True. Like other kinds of milk, soy milk is processed. Ideally, we could all soak our soy beans and strain them to make homemade, un-processed soy milk. Although, this is not extremely practical for everyone. We won’t die if we drink processed soy milk as long as it is in moderate consumption. If you are on a die-hard unprocessed diet, you’ll probably want to avoid many soy products.

Soy contains dangerous estrogens that can cause cancer. No evidence has been found to support this claim. Estrogen is a hormone naturally found in human bodies. The phytoestrogens that has been called dangerous are also found in flaxseeds, sesame seeds, hummus, garlic, peanuts, and more. One study found that men who consume soymilk daily actually had a 70% reduced risk of prostate cancer.

Soy products are genetically modified. That is true. Some are. It’s best to buy Non-GMO or organic.

Soy contains anti-nutrients causes trouble with digestion. True – these anti-nutrients, or trypsin inhibitors, can upset digestion. These substances are deactivated by cooking and fermentation. Soy milk is unfermented so it is best to drink in moderation. Interestingly, Thomas Badger and his colleagues found that infants on soy milk formula don’t suffer from any specific digestion issues.

These days all health related topics seem to be controversial. In the end we all get to make our own decisions and know personally what is best for us. If you like soy products (like me), you continue to enjoy them in moderation.