soy vs. whey protein powders

[Katy517 1]

Does anybody use soy Protein Powder instead of (or maybe in addition to) whey? I've been alternating between the two and find that they're both equally digestible for me. It just seems like a good idea to me to mix it up a little between the plant based soy and dairy based whey. Anybody else try both?

[Jachut 487]

There is loads and loads of evidence that soy is not good for you in regular amounts. I would avoid soy based shakes if they're going to be a focus of your diet, just as I would avoid drinking soy milk daily.

The worry is the hormonal effects a lot of soy can have. And of course, you would want non GM soy.

I dont know a lot about it, though, so of course, do your own research.

[BetsyB 9]

I'm with Jacqui.

Soy---and particularly soy Protein isolate from genetically modified sources---is hugely allergenic to many. (And this allergy can be difficult to diagnose because it's very difficult to remove soy from the diet without moving to a whole foods diet.)

If you're lucky enough to be spared allergy, soy appears to be connected with several serious health conditions.

Its phytoestrogens (plant estrogens), in tiny amounts, may be helpful to perimenopausal women (though the jury's still out). In people without dwindling estrogen--or who eat larger larger amounts (or use concentrated sources such as soy Protein isolate supplements), the phytoestrogens may contribute to the development of breast and other cancers.

Further, soy can suppress thyroid function and may affect cognitive function in the elderly.

But I suspect your concern is primarily in the quality of the protein---and for that, it's just not as bioavailable (easily used by the body for cell growth, maintenance, and repair) as whey protein isolate.

I personally would NOT rely on soy protein isolate as a regular part of my diet---for safety reasons.

From the Harvard school of public health:

Eat soy in moderation. Soybeans, tofu, and other soy-based foods are an excellent alternative to red meat. But don't go overboard. Two to four servings a week is a good target. And stay away from supplements that contain concentrated soy protein or soy extracts, such as isoflavones

(italics mine, bolding theirs)

This sentiment is repeated often in the medical literature.

[Katy517 1]

Thanks so much Betsy and Jacqui. I've done some reading this morning about soy Protein powder cons and am catching up on the research now.

Betsy - are you from Joliet? I spent a large chunk of my growing up years there and graduated from both St. Francis Academy and the University of St. Francis.

Cheers.

[BetsyB 9]

Close! I'm in Plainfield :thumbup:

[Katy517 1]

Very close! Pretty sure that's where my boss lives now. Cheers.

Close! I'm in Plainfield :thumbup:

[Cingulus 0]

I have not used soy. But I have very good luck with egg white Protein as well as whey.