Conclusion: The effects of soya on health and the environment
This post is the final part of a four part series of posts. You can find the introduction (part one) here, part two here and part three here. I've been asked many questions about soya and I've heard contradictory opinions too, so I asked Sagar Kirit Shah to write an article it. Here's his conclusion.
Conclusion - the effects of soya on health and the environment
In summary, my view is that soya not a health risk, but is certainly not a health panacea and is by no means necessary for good health on a vegan diet.
Buying power
I also believe it is relatively straight forward to avoid some of the adverse environmental effects by purchasing soya products made with non-GM beans from plantations not associated with rainforest destruction.
Lightly processed vs highly processed
I believe there is nothing wrong with enjoying the taste and convenience of soya products as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
Just try and remember it is much better to go for lightly processed, whole bean, products (e.g. whole bean soya milk, tofu, tempeh, natto, miso, edamame) than for products which are highly processed (e.g. meat analogues made using texturised soya protein, soya alternatives to single cream and soya ice cream).
Previous articles in this series
Part 1 - Should we consume soya or not?
Part 2 - Does soya consumption have a negative impact on health?
Part 3 - Is soya good for the environment?
“I've been vegan for about 10 and a half years. It's been all good. I'm obviously much healthier.”
- Woody Harrelson