The Risks Of Using Soy Protein Powder

Soy protein powder is made from soy protein isolate that has been separated or isolated from other components of the soybean, making it nearly carbohydrate and fat-free. The content of bio-active components in soy protein isolate may vary from product to product depending on how the soy protein is processed. The FDA notes that 25 grams of soy protein daily may reduce your risk of heart disease. However, you may also incur health risks.

Food Allergy

Some people may be allergic to soy protein powders. The Food and Drug Administration reports that the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 recognizes soy as one of the eight most common food allergens, and that allergic reactions to soy may result in life-threatening symptoms, such as anaphylaxis, a condition where you may have trouble or are unable to breathe. Scientists do not have a consensus on the minimal dose of soy protein that may cause an allergic reaction, in part because of limited data. Research by Christopher Cordle published in the "Journal of Nutrition" in 2004 reports that at least 16 potential soy protein allergens have been identified, yet their relative clinical significance is unknown. Talk with your doctor about using soy protein powders if you have a history of allergies with soy or other foods.

Alters Sex Hormones

Isoflavones in soy are substances with phytoestrogen activity that may alter sex hormone levels and characteristics in men. Research by Susan Goodin published in "Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention" in 2007, demonstrates that soy protein powder decreases blood serum levels of testosterone, increases serum levels of luteinizing hormone and induces increased estrogen receptor activity in healthy men. Luteinizing hormone stimulates secretion of sex hormones from the testes in men and ovaries in women. Research by Jorge Chavarro published in "Human Reproduction" in 2008, discovered that higher intake of soy foods and soy isoflavones is associated with reduced sperm concentration.

Accelerates Kidney Damage

Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that is characterized by your body's immune system attacking your own tissues and organs, such as the kidneys, and symptoms that include nausea, vomiting, chest pain, itching, leg swelling and weight gain. Lupus may cause serious damage to your kidneys, including kidney failure, which is a leading cause of death among people with lupus. Soy protein powders may increase your risk for complications from lupus. Research by Jian-Hong Zhao published in "International Immunopharmacology" in 2005, found that a soy protein diet and soy isoflavones, may exacerbate kidney damage associated with lupus.