Soy milk is a soy-based beverage used as an alternative to cow's milk. It is nutritionally similar to cow's milk and yet has a few distinct differences. While drinking soy milk every day may provide health benefits, there are also a few drawbacks.
Good for Heart Health
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, one benefit of drinking soy milk is that it is healthy for the heart. Soy products, such as soy milk, may reduce cholesterol and blood pressure. Soy milk may also help to prevent heart disease.
Decreasing Menopausal Symptoms
Menopausal symptoms, such as night sweats and hot flashes, can be very difficult for women to deal with. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that drinking soy milk may decrease the symptoms of menopause, which is another benefit to consider. They have found that the isoflavones found in soy reduce the length of hot flashes and the severity of night sweats.
Strengthening Bones
Health and Human Services adds another reason to drink soy milk: It can strengthen bones. The department found that people who consumed soy products for at least four weeks consistently had greater bone mineral densities than those who did not. Stronger bones help to prevent injuries like bone breaks and fractures.
Risk of Thyroid Problems
One drawback of drinking soy milk consistently is that it may work as a possible antithyroid agent, according to the Weston A Price Foundation. The organization explains that phytoestrogens found in soy milk may possibly have a link with hypothyroidism. People who already have slow thyroids or are on medications for thyroid problems should consult their doctor about drinking soy milk regularly.
Digestive Problems
Some people have problems digesting soy milk. Health and Human Services explains that while soy milk is lactose-free, some people's bodies still have a difficult time digesting soy. This is an important con to consider because those who cannot digest soy milk well may face problems like gas, bloating and stomach pains.
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