Eliminate soy - yay or nay.

So I'm trying to eliminate dairy - lactose on the Low FODMAP diet.

Which led me to read up more about soy - a dairy alternative.

I've heard people linking soy to breast cancer...

But according to Chris Kresser, modern processed soy is linked to digestive problems (ME!), thyroid dysfunction (ME!), cognitive decline (Possibly..), reproductive disorders (ME!), Immune system breakdown (fingers crossed), heart disease (hope not...>.<) and cancer (we shall see).

The soybean, innocent as it may seem, apparently contains many naturally occuring toxins - harmful! yes..
All legumes contain toxins, but the problem with toxins from soy is that they are found in very high levels and are resistant to the traditional ways of getting rid of them (I am not quite sure what the traditional ways are).

According to Kresser, soy products which have undergone a long and slow fermentation process (miso, tempeh and soy sauce) are rid of phytic acid and other digestive inhibitors, but not of phytoestrogens - which according to the United State's National Institute on Health may lead to both desirable and non-desirable effects.

And from Gunnar's article

Mineral absorption
Whole soybeans contain phytates which block absorption of minerals. Soybeans are very rich in Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which can cause problems.

Breast cancerSoy isoflavones can increase the multiplication of cells in the breasts. However, observational studies show a reduced risk of breast cancer. Soy may lead to mild disruptions of the normal menstrual cycle.

Testosterone reductionExposure to estrogen-like compounds in the womb can lead to adverse effects on males. Studies on the effects of soy on testosterone and sperm quality are inconclusive.

Hypothyroidism
Even though soy isoflavones have been shown to inhibit the function of a key enzyme in the thyroid, there is not enough evidence to conclude that they contribute to hypothyroidism in adults.

So whilst it's unknown whether soy is truly linked or a causation of the aforementioned illnesses. I think it's safe to say, I should avoid soy.

All soy?

Not soy lecithin - an additive.
Small amounts of miso, natto, soy sauce, tempeh are fine.
But definitely not the processed soy used in vegetarian 'meat', soy milk and other processed foods.