Holly Wilson, M.D.
Soy has long been recognized as a nutrient-dense food and as an excellent source of protein by respected dietitians and clinical nutritionists. The soybean contains all of the essential amino acids, as well as an impressive list of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). Micronutrients in rich supply in soy include: calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, C and zinc. Fiber and omega-3 and 6 fatty acids are also present in soy. The composition of these nutrients varies among preparations, but is in the highest quantity in whole soy foods such as edamame (whole soy beans), soy milk, tofu and tempeh.
Yet despite the powerful health benefits of whole soy foods, myths and misinformation regarding the ‘dangers’ of soy consumption are being widely circulated and presented as fact. I will address a few of these myths by taking a closer look at some of the sources of confusion and controversy.
“All soy is GMO!”
I would like to begin by explaining that the largest consumer of commercially grown GMO soybeans, both in the US and globally, is farmed animals. GMOs are genetically modified organisms, and their safety for human consumption is a hot topic of debate; many European countries have banned GMOs. While long term studies and conclusive data on the health effects of GMOs are lacking, GMOs are ubiquitous in our food supply. Soybeans are one of several major food staples now dominated by genetic modification. Currently, 81% of the global soybean crop is genetically modified, and approximately 85% of all GMO soybeans
– See more at: http://freefromharm.org/health-nutrition/vegan-doctor-addresses-soy-myths-and-misinformation/#sthash.caZQU1HA.dpuf
Girl for Animal Liberation 
Reblogged this on "OUR WORLD".
How timely that you posted this. I just had an organic meat eater tell me that I had to get rid of soy in my life. Funny thing I have not been eating a lot of soy products due to a sense of taste/smell issue right now but when I was having soy every day I was so much healthier.
It ceases to amaze me how often I am attacked by non-vegans about the ills of soy. They demonize soy while stuffing their gobs with meat, dairy, eggs, etc… They don’t seem to be too concerned about all the hormones in the cow’s milk they are pouring into the coffee or the yogurt they are eating. And I’m not talking about injected artificial hormones, I’m talking about the naturally occurring hormones that are in the animal products they eat.
My feeling has always been, I’ll take my chances with soy. But I a glad to see this article dispels all the ridiculous myths about it.
It would seem the meat/dairy/poultry industry is trying to scare everybody off from choosing a “Plant Based” diet. And sadly, people believe the propaganda.
There is just so much to digest (no pun intended) when it comes to food additives of any kind and, as you pointed out in your response to the previous comment, naturally occurring hormones. I would, at least for now, support legislation in all states for labeling GMO’s. Whether or not GMO’s are deemed safe or not, we have the right to know what has been added to the foods we consume and then choose accordingly. Because I’ve become more educated additives, processing methods, etc. I’ve personally altered my choices dramatically.
I agree BP, consumers have a right to know the TRUTH about their food.
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