Soya – Good or bad for us?

This article looks at some of the evidence in favour of adding soya products to our diet, as well as considering whether soya supplements might be harmful to us. 

  • What is soya?
  • Types of soya products available in the UK
  • Evidence to suggest that soya might be good for our health
  • Evidence to suggest that soya supplements might be harmful for our health
  • Conclusions 

 

What is soya?

 

 

Mature soya beans are a light cream colour while edamame beans are soya beans that are picked when they are still young, soft and green.

 

 

Soya-based products are made from the soya bean, originally found in parts of East Asia. This bean is high in protein and is the main source of protein for many communities. Soya products can be good alternatives to meat and dairy products.

As the demand for meat and dairy replacements increases, soya products can be found in many local supermarkets around the world.

 

Types of soya products available in the UK

Soya products include: