Soybeans are rich in nutritional value and can be prepared in many ways. Below, I will introduce three nutritional facts about soybeans.
Consuming soybeans affects people with hypothyroidism: True.
Research has found that isoflavones in soybeans inhibit thyroid activity, which can lead to goiter or other thyroid function abnormalities. Further studies have confirmed that consuming soybeans can worsen already disrupted thyroid function.
Eating large amounts of highly processed soy products is unhealthy: True.
Kathleen McManus, director of the nutrition department at Brigham and Women's Hospital in the United States, believes that everyone, regardless of their thyroid function, should avoid consuming large amounts of highly concentrated soy nutritional supplements, such as protein powders or protein bars made from soy, as well as soy lecithin used in packaged foods. She believes the best forms to consume are natural foods like edamame, tofu, fermented black beans, and unsweetened soy milk.
Eating soybeans can reduce the risk of heart disease: Makes sense.
W Bazilian, a nutrition consultant for *Prevention* magazine, believes that eating soybeans itself does not significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. However, because of its high dietary fiber content, it can be a good substitute for other unhealthy foods high in saturated fat, which helps lower cholesterol levels in the body, regulate blood pressure, and is beneficial for heart health.