New Zealand scientists warn parents about hazards of soy formula.
In an article in the New Zealand Medical Journal (#108, 1995),
four scientists published test results showing that phytoestrogens
found in soy infant formula are two to three times greater than
amounts that will disrupt the menstrual cycle in women. The phytoestrogens
act against the natural hormone oestradiol in baby's body, affecting
baby both physically and behaviorally.
No research has yet been done to document effects of soy formula
on infant characteristics. The scientists rejected the manufacturer's
claims that soy formula has been used for many years without side
effects. The scientists gave the example of DES, which was prescribed
to women for 30 years before harmful effects appeared.
The medical journal Lancet, also reported that the daily exposure
of infants to isoflavones in soy formulas is 6 to 11 times higher
per body weight than the dose that has hormonal effects in adults.
(#350, 1997)
The U.S. FDA (Food & Drug Administration) stated "given
the DES tragedy, it would be foolish to ignore the possibility
that some phytoestrogens constitute a developmental hazard."
The New Zealand Ministry of Health recommends soy formula feeding
only on the advice of health specialists.
Infact Canada Newsletter, Winter/96
Infants on soy formula may receive the equivalent amount of
estrogen that is found in 5 to 10 birth control pills each day.
Animal studies show that excessive estrogens during the fetal
period lead to aggressiveness, behavior problems, hyperactivity,
early puberty, increases in breast, prostrate, and reproductive
cancers, reduced sperm count, malformation of male genitals, and
other effects.
Other researchers say that the estrogen in soy formula can inhibit
the testosterone hormone, thus affecting the sexual programming
of boys. This may not be apparent until the reproductive system
is activated at puberty.
Babies fed soy formula have a negative balance of the mineral
zinc--they are losing more than they are taking in. Soy (unless
it is fermented) blocks the absorption of calcium, zinc, and magnesium,
which are essential for brain health. If zinc is in short supply
in the body, it creates an imbalance of copper which leads to
problems such as mood swings, low energy, and depression.
The Crazy Makers (book by Carol Simontacchi)