Here are the health risks of eating tofu
Many people may perceive that tofu is a good substitute to meat for a healthier diet, however, this food has several health risks.
Tofu is formed through curdling condensed soy milk and pressing it into soft, white blocks. It is bland in taste but the spices added to eat became the flavor. For many centuries Chinese have been using tofu in their dishes.
According to the article from stemjar.com, tofu contains proteins, essential amino acids. In addition, it is rich in iron, calcium, manganese, selenium and phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, copper, and vitamin B1. However, this food also has health risks that people should know.
Here is the list stating why tofu can be harmful to your health.
#1 GMO
According to the article, 90 percent of soybean grown in the US are genetically modified. A study published by the Environmental Sciences Review, GMO foods can cause a problem in the liver and kidney.
#2 Thyroid issues
Archives of Diseases in Childhood published a study stating that intake of soy-based products can have an adverse effect, especially for children born with congenital hypothyroidism. According to a study from Loma Linda University, people with an underactive thyroid should avoid overeating soy.
#3 Natural toxins
Tofu contains these following natural toxins or anti-nutrients:
Lectins and saponins – gastrointestinal and immune system problems like leaky gut syndrome.
Phytates – block the absorption of minerals like calcium, zinc, and iron.
Oligosaccharides – lead to digestive problems like gas and bloating.
Oxalates – can cause kidney stones and vulvodynia.
Protease inhibitors – can cause digestive issues and lead to malnutrition and weak growth.
#4 Poor cognitive performance
Eating too much of this food can lead to memory loss as it has phytoestrogens, which mimic the impact of estrogen and this increases the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. A study on Japanese Americans who ate tofu in mid-life supported this claim.
#5 Pancreatic stress
Tofu and other soybean products contain protease inhibitors. They are known as factors suppressing enzymes that help digest proteins. Because of this, the pancreas has to work a little harder in order to produce enzymes.
#6 Soy sensitivity
People who have soy sensitivity can experience digestive issues such as bloating, gas, cramping, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. There are also those who are allergic to soy and can lead to anaphylaxis which can also lead to death.
#7 Heart problems
A diet containing a large amount of soy can lead to a condition in which causes the muscle wall of the heart to become thick and makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood. This is called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The Journal of Clinical Investigation released a study about this.
#8 Breast cancer
A study from Canada stated that low levels of phytoestrogens can stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells. Soy products also prevent the effect of tamoxifen, the drug used to treat late-stage breast cancer.
#9 Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D deficiency
Reports support the claim that soy products such as tofu can lead to Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D deficiency.
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