Currently, there is no clear evidence that drinking soy milk in reasonable amounts reduces male sexual function or causes infertility.
Many people worry about consuming soy milk and soy products due to isoflavones. These compounds have a structure similar to female estrogen, leading to the misconception that soy impacts testosterone, a crucial hormone for male sexual and overall health.
Research indicates that normal soy consumption does not significantly alter testosterone levels in healthy men or cause sexual health issues like reduced libido, sperm problems, or infertility. In fact, the abundant isoflavones in soy can support low sperm count and improve male infertility.
Soy milk is a plant-based protein source that provides essential protein for muscle maintenance and hormone synthesis, including testosterone. This beverage also contains calcium, potassium, and vitamin d, which support cardiovascular health, metabolism, weight management, and reduce the risk of prostate cancer and osteoporosis.
Men can consume one to two glasses of soy milk daily, equivalent to about 200 ml. It is important to combine various protein sources with other foods like meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and other legumes for a balanced daily diet. Soy milk must be thoroughly boiled. Avoid drinking soy milk on an empty stomach or immediately after eating oranges or tangerines. Do not mix it with red sugar or chicken eggs, as this can reduce nutritional value or cause indigestion.
Individuals with soy allergies should avoid it. Those undergoing treatment for kidney stones, gout, or thyroid conditions should consult a doctor, as soy may affect the absorption of certain medications if consumed concurrently.
To maintain sexual and reproductive health, men should eat a balanced diet, get sufficient sleep, limit alcohol, exercise regularly, and supplement with natural nutrients that stimulate the body's testosterone production as needed. For example, a combination of eurycoma longifolia, french maritime pine bark extract, and oyster extract supports the activation of endogenous testosterone and nitric oxide synthesis, improves metabolism, and enhances male vitality.
Master, Doctor Doan Vinh Binh
Medical Information Center
Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM