About soy: The Joys of soy, and When soy annoys

Soy and vegetarians go together like PB&J, like peas and carrots, or even fish and water... right? In some cases yes, and in others, no. Soy is a nutrient dense food, without being too calorie dense. Ounce for ounce, and calorie for calorie, soy beans are top sources of protein, fiber, unsaturated fat, folic acid, b-vitamins, iron, calcium, zinc and potassium, and the best part- it's cholesterol free! Soy has intestine friendly carbs, reduces cholesterol, and in its natural state it is low in sodium. Even though the soybean is super tiny, there is no other food that packs such a nutritional punch.

Soy products, like veggie burgers, mock chicken and so on are very convenient, and are great for treats. Tofu is iconic for vegans and vegetarians, they seem to just go together- like Tweety bird and Sylvester from Loony-toons. Soy products can also make the transition easier for new Veggies, becoming their 'main' source of protein. For new Veggies I recommend Morning-Star veggie 'beef' crumbles, the Chick'n' patties, Chicken'n' strips, their veggie dogs and their veggie corn dogs as well. For most people, these products are amazing and a great convenient food. But what happens when soy annoys?

Some people have Soy allergies (See a doctor for a blood test if you suspect you are allergic to soy,) or Soy sensitivities (not a true allergy, but a lot of side effects. Think of a bad food intolerance.) My first attempt at becoming a Veggie was a disaster. (third times the charm! If you try and fail, don't get discouraged, try again!) I bought morning-star products, and was eating them along with lots of fruits and veggies, thinking I would be losings weight, and getting healthy. Instead, I broke out severely, had stomach pains, swelling and tenderness in my breasts (talk about embarrassing!) bloating, mood swings, and I felt consistently 'foggy.' Other symptoms of soy sensitivities include gas (that's awkward!) an altered menstrual cycle, and oddly enough, joint pain. But there is good news for people who have a soy allergy or soy sensitivity, it is possible to be a Veggie without soy- And I'm proof! In my first post on this blog, I posted a huge list of meal ideas that don't use soy. You can also google "soy free vegetarian meals" and get some links and ideas.