Avoid soy during pregnancy

Avoid Soy during Pregnancy

The soy that we are consuming is not the same soy that is consumed in Asia. Many of the studies done on the health benefits of soy have been in comparing a traditional Japanese diet to a typical American diet. The Japanese consume a large quantity of soy products and they have a lower incidence of prostate cancer, heart disease, and fewer menopausal symptoms. The majority of the soy that Asians are consuming is in the form of fermented soy such as tofu, tempeh, and miso. Unlike most soy grown in the United States, Asian soy is not genetically modified either.

Studies have shown that the phytoestrogens present in soy can have hormonal influences that can have negative health consequences on infants. Hot Mamas who are trying to make healthy choices for themselves and their babies, should avoid eating too much soy especially in the more processed forms such as soy milk, soy protein bars, soy protein shakes, and low-carb breads and pastas (soy is often added to these products to lower the carb count). If you are a Hot Vegetarian Mama and soy is a staple in your diet, try to consume organic (not genetically modified) and fermented soy products such as tofu and tempeh. Another vegetarian “meat” alternative is seitan. Seitan is made from the protein of wheat. It is a low carb, high protein alternative to wheat. Seitan can be used as a meat substitute in stir-fry, can be barbequed, and can be eaten as a burger. Seitan is not appropriate for those who have celiac disease are who are allergic or sensitive to wheat.