Whenever you're looking for a supplement to help you get more vitamins and minerals into your diet, you probably wonder what supplements contain soy lecithin. Soy lecithin is a plant-based nutrient often used in dietary supplements for various reasons, from providing energy to boosting sexual health. You can find supplements containing soy lecithin here, and it's a good idea to learn more about what it is, why it's used, and how you can use it to your advantage.
Common uses
Soy lecithin is one of the most widely used emulsifiers in food and beverage products. It helps emulsify oils and water into a liquid with better texture, taste, and shelf life. This lubricant can be added to a variety of different recipes.
Lecithin is a naturally occurring substance that is found in many foods. It is known to have a range of health benefits. For instance, it has been shown to help with high cholesterol and digestive disorders. In addition, it may also improve memory and brain function in people with age-related memory loss.
The main component of soy lecithin is phospholipids. These are fat molecules that have hydrophobic groups. They are used as emulsifiers because they can bind together ingredients that don't mix well. Often, it is added to emulsions at a ratio of between 0.25 and 1.0%.
When used for food purposes, soy lecithin is blended into a liquid before adding oil. Because it helps stabilize a mixture, it is often used with xanthan gum. Together, these two agents increase the mouthfeel of the finished product and reduce spattering during frying.
Soy lecithin is extracted from soybeans and heated to about 50 to 70 degrees Celsius. It is then bleached with hydrogen peroxide. While this process can be toxic, it is usually safe.
Lecithin is also commonly used in cosmetic products. Products like creams and lotions are made using lecithin to increase the shelf life and reduce the viscosity of the ingredients.
Soy lecithin is also sometimes used in pharmaceuticals. However, the Food and Drug Administration requires source labelling.
Some people worry about the chemical solvents used to extract soy lecithin. Fortunately, the FDA has deemed it generally safe.
Phytoestrogens
Soy lecithin is a plant-based source of isoflavones, which are antioxidants. These compounds are similar to estrogen but are much less powerful. Some people believe that they can help prevent cancer. But there needs to be more evidence to prove that they do.
Although soybeans are a rich source of phytoestrogens, they are not the only sources of these compounds. Other foods, such as soy sauce, contain them as well.
Some of these compounds, such as genistein, can harm the reproductive system. They can cause infertility. Phytoestrogens also have a tendency to lower testosterone in males. This can affect sperm count. In addition, high estrogen levels in women can predispose them to irregular menses, weight gain, acne, and hormone-sensitive cancers.
However, some studies have shown that soy can help decrease your breast cancer risk. Another study suggests that consuming soy may lower your risk of prostate cancer.
Some researchers believe that soy lecithin contains phytoestrogens. These estrogen-like compounds, similar to estrogen, can disrupt the endocrine system. Depending on your personal circumstances, they may have negative effects.
Soy lecithin can be found in many manufactured products, including men's energy and vitamin supplements. The problem is that most soy lecithin is derived from genetically modified soybeans.
Because soy products are GMOs, they may not be safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding infants. Furthermore, they may have an adverse effect on the immune system of babies.
Despite the presence of soy lecithin, there are no conclusive links between it and cancer. Rather, more research is needed to determine its impact on the body.
Hexane residue
Soy lecithin is used as an emulsifier, wetting agent, and crystallization control in food products. It is also used as a foaming agent for herb foam and molecular cooking.
The extraction process of soy lecithin involves hexane, a known human neurotoxin. Inhalation of hexane can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness.
A recent study by the Cornucopia Institute found that some soy-based foods may be contaminated with hexane. They tested a variety of soy-based foods and analyzed air emissions. Their results showed that some samples exceeded EPA tolerance levels.
As a result, Cornucopia's investigators compiled a list of soy products that were found to contain hexane. They cautioned consumers not to take soy-based products at their word.
They noted that hexane is present in both processed and organic soy. However, the FDA does not regulate hexane residue in foods, so there may be hexane in some products that are labelled as natural.
Hexane is a solvent that can damage the reproductive organs, lungs, and central nervous system. For this reason, the Cornucopia Institute recommends choosing organic soy-based products.
According to the report, people are most likely exposed to hexane through gas fumes, cleaning solvents, and quick-drying glue. Also, people who are allergic to soy should avoid all soy-based products.
In addition to hexane, some soy products may contain pesticide residue. These are commonly derived from genetically modified soy. Purchasing organic soy-based products is the best way to prevent pesticide exposure.
Soy lecithin is a good source of phospholipids, which may benefit overall health, especially endurance athletes. Phospholipid supplements can help decrease muscle soreness and fatigue.
Common side effects
Soy lecithin supplements are used to treat a variety of ailments. Some studies have suggested that they may help with Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, brain function, and other neurological problems. However, there are also some side effects to consider.
Some people are allergic to soy. They may experience symptoms such as dizziness, diarrhoea, and stomach pain. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should discontinue taking the supplements.
The extraction process of soy lecithin can produce toxins. These toxins can lead to harmful effects such as kidney damage, dizziness, nausea, and other problems. It is important to use an organic form of soy lecithin.
Research on soy lecithin has been conducted on animals, and only limited human research has been done. Studies suggest that it may benefit some conditions, but human trials are needed to confirm this.
There have been reports of allergic reactions to soy lecithin in people with a history of soy allergy. Despite this, it is not as common as the allergic reaction to cow's milk.
Phytoestrogens found in soy can cause problems with sperm counts and infertility. Women who eat a lot of soy can also have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
Since soy lecithin can lower testosterone levels in males, men interested in trying to conceive should avoid soy. In addition, women with high estrogen levels are more susceptible to infertility and irregular menses.
Besides soy, lecithin is also obtained from canola, eggs, and other sources. The fatty compound contains choline, which helps improve brain function and prevents muscle damage.
As with any dietary supplement, you should consult a doctor before beginning any treatment.
Allergenicity
Soy lecithin is an oily substance that is derived from soy. It is used as a food additive, an antioxidant, and an emulsifier. It is found in various formats, including powder, granules, soft gel capsules, and liquids. Some people have reported side effects from soy lecithin, but the effects are rare.
Some people with soy allergies may find soy lecithin helpful. This is because it contains a micronutrient called choline. Choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, which is important for brain development and health. In addition, choline is a micronutrient that helps protect the heart.
Soy lecithin is not known to cause allergies in most people, but it is possible to develop an allergy if you have a severe soy allergy. If you are allergic to soy, it's best to avoid soy products. You should also be careful about storing soy-free foods.
In addition, soy lecithin can contain pesticides and phytoestrogens, which can cause hormonal imbalance. Also, soy lecithin is often extracted with chemical solvents. These solvents can cause negative reactions in soy-allergic individuals.
Various studies have shown that soy lecithin is generally safe, with minimal side effects. However, some patients have reported digestive issues or a rash after consuming soy lecithin. Despite the small risk, most allergists do not recommend that soy-allergic individuals avoid soy lecithin.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued guidance regarding using soy lecithin in food. But the FDA also stated that the labelling of soy lecithin is not always accurate and relies on regulatory discretion.
Some organizations have online sources that indicate that soy lecithin is generally considered safe for most people. In addition, the University of Nebraska does not advise patients with soy allergies against taking soy lecithin.
