Does Soy Protein cause 'feminization' of men?

Does Soy Protein cause 'feminization' of men?

Several conflicting studies have been published concerning the side effects some men have experienced consuming soy protein.

One study, based on the consumption of over 100 grams of soy protein per day found that 'feminization' in men did occur in a statistical significant percentage over those in the placebo group. This included enlarged/sensitive breasts, reduced testosterone production and libido. One good side effect was that hair loss seemed to diminish.

Another study, based on consumption limited to a maximum of 50 grams of soy protein/day, found no occurances of such feminization side effects. In fact, the isoflavones and phytoestrogen found in soy protein were determined to, in some men, increase testosterone levels due to the body counteracting the introduction of these female 'phytoestrogen' into their systems.

The bottom line is that several studies have shown that a balance of whey, egg, casein, and soy proteins is recommended because it closely mimic the amino acid profile of human tissue. There is no need to consume more than 50 grams of soy protein/day so limit yourself to that amount and supplement the balance with whey, egg, and casein proteins. There are many choices to choose from but one locally sourced brand is Body for the Ages Protein powder. It is available for purchase online at www.bodyfortheages.com.

Fightin fat with fat - Fish and Omega 3 oils

Most folks know eating certain cold water fish, like salmon and halibit is good for you because of the Omega 3 fats they contain. The Omega 3 oil is heart friendly and helps keep arteries unclogged. Another benefit many don't know about is that they help you feel full, longer, than other foods such as carbohydrates. This means you are less like to want to eat again after having a fish dinner. If you just hate fish, then take Fish Oil capsules. Your local Costco store has a jumbo size bottle available at the best price I've found.

US Kids deficient in Vitamin D

According to Michal Melamed of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine 70% of US kids have deficient or insufficient Vitamin D levels. This confirms what this blogger has been saying for a long time; Supplements are often necessary to maintain adequate levels of many nutrients. Yes, Kids don't spend as much time outdoors where UV light exposure causes the body to produce Vitamin D and many don't drink as much milk but the fact is, given the fact most folks just don't eat right enough of the time supplements are a good way to stay healthy.

Chronic Pain caused by inflamation

New reports DIET critical in reducing chronic pain caused by inflamation. (joints, muscles, etc.)

Foods that have been found to contribute to inflamation and subsequent pain include:
Refined sugar, refined grains/breads/flour, refined oils and fatty meats. Unfortunately these foods make up 30-40% of the typical American diet.

It is suggested to reduce your consumption of the above foods by at least 10% and preferably 20% and replace with vegetables, fruit, raw nuts(almonds especially), potatoes (regular and sweet), lean meat, skinless chicken, fish, eggs(1 yolk per 3 eggs). Olive and coconut oil, fish oil (omega 3) used in moderation is great. Spices such as ginger, turmeric, rosemary, oregano, garlic, corainder, and pepper have also been shown to have anti-inflamatory properties.

FUN FOODS that are good for you in moderation: chocolate, red wine, stout beer.

Also, instead of taking Advil or Tylenol which in some folks negatively affect the liver. Asprin, when consumed in high doses has been shown to contribute to the development of ulcers. WHITE WILLOW BARK, a natural anti-inflamatory, is recommended as a possible alternative. (check with your Doctor first)

Too much Soy may increase estrogen Levels in Men

There are now scientific studies showing that men who consume more than 25 grams of Soy (Milk, Tofu, etc.) per day are at risk for increased levels of estrogen that may cause gynecomastia(enlarged breasts) and other 'feminzation' characteristics, including reduced libido. Countries such as Israel, France, Australia, and New Zealand have actually recommended that Soy protein not be used in infant formulas unless lactose intolerance is present.

That said, Soy has also been shown to reduce the incidence of prostrate cancer and heart disease. Bottom line, if you are a man, limit your Soy intake to 25 grams/day.

The 'Pyramid' of Success

To vary your workouts and reduce the amount of time in the gym try using the 'Reverse Pyramid' system.

After a warm-up, start with your max. wt.(8-12 reps) and then reduce by 20% for each subsequent set for a total of 3-4 sets. (no rest between sets) You will not only get a great anerobic workout but a great aerobic workout as well. You don't need to warm up on subsequent exercises for the same bodypart.

Common Supplements and their effect purpose

There are alot of supplments out in the marketplace and most folks aren't sure what they are used for.

Here is a brief outline of a few most folks don't know about:
Calcium: RDA-1000mg/day - Milk/milk products - Strong bones, teeth, regulate heart beat and muscle action/nerve function, blood clotting.
Chromium: no RDA - Corn oil, whole grain cereals - Glocose metabolism (energy)
Iodine ; 150mcg/day - Seafood, iodized salt - Helps form hormone thryozine which regulates metalbolism.
Magnesium : No RDA - Nuts, green vegetables, whole grains - Maintains bodys PH balance, assists in metabolizing carbohydrates and minerals.
Selenium: 50-200 mcg/day - Seafood, lean meats, grains - Protects body tissues against oxidative damage from radiation and assists with normal metabolic processing.
Zinc: 15mg/day - Lean meats, eggs, seafood, whole grains - Improves digestion and metabolism, aids in healing from injury, may reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol.

Most of the above are included in a good multi-vitamin/mineral supplement. I recommend taking an extra 500 mg zinc in addition to a high potency multivitamin/mineral supplement.