05/04/2023
Dangers of e476.
1. 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.
2. 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 s***m count, and an increased risk of cancer.
A 2014 study shows frequent ingestion of phytoestrogen in low doses promotes breast cancer cell development during test tube experiments and induces tumors in living organisms.
3. 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.
4. 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
5. 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.
