Although soy products are nutritious, delicious, and have become a popular food on people's tables, they may not be suitable for everyone. Some people should not consume too much tofu.
Who should avoid consuming tofu?
Elderly people
When plant proteins are metabolized in the body, most of them are converted into nitrogenous waste, which is then excreted by the kidneys. As people age, their kidneys' ability to eliminate waste decreases. If the amount of nitrogenous waste in the body increases, it can burden the kidneys and further deteriorate kidney function, which is detrimental to the health of elderly individuals.
Adolescents
Soybeans and soy products contain soy isoflavones, which are plant estrogens. These estrogens can cause early sexual development in children, leading to premature bone fusion and stunted growth. If boys consume a large amount of soy, it can affect the development of secondary sexual characteristics, resulting in a less masculine appearance or even feminization. It can also decrease sperm quality and lead to reduced fertility in the future.
Pregnant women and men preparing for pregnancy
Due to the high levels of plant estrogens in soy products, they can counteract male hormones. This can lead to urinary tract malformations, small penis, and small testicles in male fetuses. In female fetuses, it can contribute to breast, uterus, and cervix diseases in adulthood. If men planning to conceive consume excessive amounts of soy, it can reduce sperm count and quality.
Iodine deficiency patients
Soybeans used in tofu production contain a substance called saponin, which not only prevents atherosclerosis but also promotes the excretion of iodine from the body. Prolonged excessive consumption of tofu can easily lead to iodine deficiency, causing iodine deficiency disorders.
In addition, individuals with renal insufficiency, gout, atherosclerosis, weak digestion, diabetes, gastritis, and phenylketonuria should also avoid consuming soy products. Therefore, people should consider their own health conditions before deciding whether to consume soy products.
