Soy milk is highly nutritious and a suitable drink for all ages. However, individuals with anemia should note that it's best to consume soy milk separately from iron supplements and iron-rich foods.
The protein in soybeans can hinder the human body's absorption of iron. Experts explain, "The soy protein in soy milk is rich in amino acids. Instead of providing additional health benefits, these amino acids react with iron in the intestines to form a special chelate. This chelate cannot be absorbed by the body, meaning the beneficial iron is 'taken away' and becomes waste. Moreover, the plant-based fiber in soy also affects the absorption of metal elements such as iron and zinc."
In other words, if you drink soy milk while consuming iron-rich foods, the absorption rate of iron will be significantly reduced, and it will not have the intended blood-enriching effect.
Therefore, experts recommend avoiding soy milk when consuming iron-rich foods such as red meat, animal liver, duck blood, and pig blood, or when taking iron supplements. It is best to wait for 2 to 3 hours in between.