Originally published August 7 2005
Soy is a natural milk alternative for women, as well as men
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
For years men have avoided soy products because they contain a chemical that closely resembles estrogen, but there's no need to avoid it any longer, as it helps build up lean muscle mass in men without any adverse side effects, according to a new study.
We're talking about what they look for in someone else's body.
In fact, fear of developing these feminine features has kept muscle-seekers away from a powerhouse supplement - soy protein - for some time.
These powerful antioxidants are linked to all kinds of health benefits, from fighting certain types of cancer to reducing cholesterol, but their chemical structure closely resembles that of estrogen, the female sex hormone.
In fact, the molecules are so alike that isoflavones often bond to estrogen receptors on cells, which is why consuming soy products is an effective treatment for women who suffer from excessive estrogen levels and associated disorders.
However, some men are frightened by the mere idea of intentionally ingesting a product that contains high amounts of something resembling estrogen.
Many worry that the isoflavones will compete with testosterone's anabolic effect, affecting their muscle mass or - worse - feminizing their features.
Soybeans contain all eight essential amino acids and tons of vitamins and nutrients to boot.
A recent study conducted by the Nutrition Division of Miami Research Associates tested four different protein powders (soy protein concentrate, soy protein isolate, a soy/whey blend and whey protein isolate) by feeding shakes twice daily to 41 male bodybuilders.
After 12 weeks, the scientists found all of the protein supplements increased lean body mass and none caused any difference in testosterone or estrogen levels.
Considering soy's impressive list of health benefits and that other studies indicate its antioxidant content is linked to improved muscle recovery, bodybuilders of each gender should rush to add it to their diets.
For best results, try a 50-50 soy-whey blend differences in their digestion rates ensure a prolonged, steady release of amino acids to needy muscle fibers.
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