5 Soy Lecithin Side Effects And Why You Should AVOID It

last edited 11-23-2024

Why is soy lecithin used so widely despite its risks? What makes this ingredient so controversial? And when should you consider avoiding it altogether?

Soy lecithin is a ubiquitous ingredient, quietly appearing in everyday products like chocolate, bread, and supplements. While it’s hailed for its role as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water to mix seamlessly, the health risks associated with its consumption often go unnoticed. 

From GMO origins to potential hormonal disruptions, soy lecithin side effects are worth understanding. Why are so many health experts advising against it? Find the five primary risks and explore safer alternatives to keep you and your family healthier.

What Is Soy Lecithin?

Lecithin Good for Weight Loss is a fatty substance derived from soybeans commonly used as an emulsifier to stabilize processed foods and supplements. 

While it boasts some benefits—like improving food texture or aiding in cholesterol management—the method of extraction and its source often raise red flags. Most soy lecithin comes from genetically modified (GMO) soy, potentially carrying health hazards.

You’ll find it in hundreds of products on the shelves of grocery stores today. Soy lecithin is an ingredient used in processed foods such as:

• cereal
• pasta
• breads
• soy and milk alternatives
• meats
• tea
• salad dressings
• sauces
• dips

It is also commonly found in health supplements, too. It’s known to boost immunity and aid in easing menopausal symptoms.

Other soy lecithin benefits may include lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and helping with stress-related disorders.

If it’s such a common ingredient in most food items and taken as a dietary supplement, then why are there bad effects of soy?

Manufacturing Soy Lecithin

Soy lecithin is used so commonly in our food supply because it acts as an emulsifier.

An emulsifier is used to make oil and water mix when they otherwise would not, and it helps stabilize and keep the ingredients from separating later. It also prevents food from becoming sticky.

Let’s begin with how soy lecithin is made.

Using a chemical solvent, manufacturers take soybean oil from raw soybeans. This soy oil is then mixed with water until the lecithin portion of the oil separates.

This lecithin portion is dried, and sometimes even undergoes a final processing step of being bleached with hydrogen peroxide.

The exact composition of soy lecithin varies slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer, but lecithin itself is made up of soybean oil and phosphatidylcholine, a type of phospholipid (or fat).

Other Sources of Lecithin

Lecithin is the general name for fatty compounds extracted from animal or plant sources. Soy is just one of the sources for lecithin.

Back then, egg lecithin was the go-to option. Today, it is isolated from soybeans, cottonseed, rapeseed, and sunflower.

Although it’s usually used as a liquid, lecithin powder and lecithin granules are now available for purchase.

Soy Lecithin Dangers to Look Out For

May Cause Diseases and Nutrient Deficiencies

One of the reasons soy lecithin is best avoided is because almost all soy in our modern day comes from GMO (genetically modified organism) crops.

This means any soy or product derived from soy, such as soy lecithin, are GMOs and have all of the accompanying health dangers, including an increased chance of having cancer.

The entire process of creating GMOs may produce carcinogens, allergens, and toxins. Aside from cancer, these chemicals may induce birth defects, sterility, and other possible nutrient deficiencies.

GMOs are also made to tolerate herbicides, which means you could be ingesting residues of toxic chemicals from herbicides.

May Increase Cancer Risk

There is a component of soy known as phytoestrogen that mimics the effect of the naturally occurring estrogen hormone. These phytoestrogens act to alter or decrease naturally occurring estrogen in the body.

So when these phytoestrogens from soy are ingested frequently, the risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer, is greatly increased. In men, these phytoestrogens can cause testosterone imbalance, infertility, low sperm count, and an increased risk of cancer.

May Lead to Birth Defects

Additionally, both soy and soy lecithin have genistein, which might have a detrimental effect on the reproductive system and can lead to infertility. Some studies show that ingesting these compounds can lead to birth defects.

A similar component found in soy and soy products is called goitrogens, an anti-thyroid compound that can disrupt the endocrine system and can lead to thyroid problems.

Since hormones contribute to the proper function of organs within the body, disrupting the endocrine system can result in hormone-related diseases and other health problems.

May Cause Allergic Reactions

Soy lecithin is also usually contaminated with a number of pesticides and insecticides and can cause allergies in sensitive individuals.

People who have a soy allergy may experience certain soy lecithin side effects. In fact, it is one of the most common allergies in humans.

Though not fatal, a soy allergic reaction makes people uncomfortable because of the hives and itching. In rare cases, though, people may experience life-threatening reactions to soy.

Some of the most common side effects seen with taking soy lecithin include:

• gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea
• weight gain
• loss of appetite
• rashes
• nausea
• dizziness
• vomiting
• low blood pressure
• blurred vision

May Cause Toxic Buildup

If you want to avoid GMO-based soy lecithin, you can opt for food products using the organic version of the ingredient. But even then, you may still be exposed to certain toxic chemicals.

That’s because the extraction process for soy lecithin uses hexane. This chemical solvent is also used in varnishes and glue.

Though it should be removed through another process, there might still be chemical residue left. A buildup of these toxins may lead to kidney and liver disease in the long run.

How to Avoid Soy Lecithin

While soy lecithin is a very common additive in our current food and supplement supply, it can be avoided. If you must consume food containing soy lecithin, choose the certified organic and certified non-GMO option.

Natural foods and cleaner food items contain natural emulsifying agents such as sunflower lecithin and even bee pollen and egg yolks.

Sunflower lecithin is a better alternative than soy lecithin because it can be extracted without the use of harsh chemical solvents.

A cold press system, similar to the process of extracting olive oil, is used to extract sunflower lecithin, making it much healthier. Plus, it doesn’t contain GMOs and other problematic things.

Why Is Lecithin Bad for You?

GMO Risks

Over 90% of soybeans in the U.S. are genetically modified, exposing consumers to herbicide residues and potential carcinogens. GMOs have been linked to nutrient deficiencies, sterility, and increased cancer risks.

Toxic Extraction Processes

Hexane, a chemical solvent used during extraction, may leave behind harmful residues. Over time, this can lead to toxic buildup in the body, potentially affecting the liver and kidneys.

Phytoestrogen Content

Soy lecithin contains phytoestrogens, which mimic estrogen in the body. These compounds can disrupt hormone levels, potentially leading to infertility, thyroid issues, and even hormone-sensitive cancers.

Potential Side Effects of Soy Lecithin

Common soy lecithin side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, nausea)
• Hormonal imbalances
• Weight changes (unexplained gain or loss)
• Soy: Allergies and Options like hives and itching
• Blurred vision or dizziness

Soy Lecithin Side Effects Male

In men, phytoestrogens can significantly impact testosterone levels. Long-term consumption may result in:

• Reduced sperm count
• Increased infertility risks
• Gynecomastia (enlarged male breast tissue)
• Potential prostate health issues

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Soy Lecithin in Pregnancy and Children

Pregnant women and children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of soy lecithin.

• Pregnancy Risks: Disruption of hormonal balance can increase miscarriage risks or affect fetal development.
• Children’s Health: Soy lecithin exposure during critical growth phases might lead to early puberty or developmental delays due to hormone interference.

For safer options during pregnancy, consider products with non-GMO lecithin like sunflower lecithin.

Factors Influencing Side Effects

Not everyone experiences adverse effects from soy lecithin. Factors include:

• Dosage: Larger amounts are more likely to trigger side effects.
• Individual Sensitivity: Those with soy 4 Most Common Food Allergies or existing hormonal conditions are at greater risk.
• GMO vs. Organic: Non-GMO soy lecithin poses fewer risks.

Dangers of Soy Lecithin

Research highlights significant risks associated with regular soy lecithin consumption:

• A 2014 study shows that phytoestrogens promote breast cancer cell growth in laboratory settings.
• Chemicals used during processing might contribute to long-term diseases like kidney or liver failure.

How to Minimize Risks

• Opt for Alternatives: Use sunflower lecithin, extracted naturally and free from Worst GMO Foods.
• Avoid Processed Foods: Many processed items contain soy lecithin. Check labels and choose organic options.
• Consider Natural Emulsifiers: Egg yolks or Ormus SuperGreens can provide healthier alternatives.

The Debate Around Soy Lecithin

Supporters argue that soy lecithin offers convenience and texture benefits in food manufacturing. Critics, however, emphasize its potential to disrupt hormonal balance and expose consumers to GMOs. Choosing organic, non-GMO soy lecithin—or avoiding it altogether—remains the best way to protect your health.

Conclusion

Avoiding soy lecithin side effects starts with informed choices. While this additive may seem harmless, its connection to GMOs, hormonal disruptions, and allergic reactions suggests caution. Switching to non-GMO options or safer alternatives like sunflower lecithin can protect your health without compromising food quality.

For better health options, check out products like Ormus SuperGreens or Collagen-Building Protein Peptides from Sunwarrior, which prioritize natural, clean ingredients. Your health is worth the effort—choose wisely.

FAQs 

1. What are the most common side effects of soy lecithin?

Common side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, weight changes, hormonal imbalances, and allergic reactions.

2. Can soy lecithin cause hormonal imbalances?

Yes. Phytoestrogens in soy lecithin mimic estrogen, potentially disrupting hormone levels.

3. Is soy lecithin safe for people with soy allergies?

No. Even trace amounts can trigger reactions like hives, itching, or, in rare cases, anaphylaxis.

4. Are there any long-term risks of consuming soy lecithin?

Long-term consumption has been linked to hormonal issues, infertility, and potential liver or kidney damage.

5. How much soy lecithin is safe to consume daily?

Moderation is key. Consult a healthcare provider, especially if you consume processed foods regularly.

6. Is non-GMO soy lecithin better for health?

Yes. Non-GMO versions eliminate herbicide residues and reduce overall risks.

7. What are the best alternatives to soy lecithin?

Consider sunflower lecithin, bee pollen, or organic options like Collagen-Building Protein Peptides.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on April 3, 2018, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.