Soy
Chances are, you've heard that soy is good for you. And then, that it is, in fact, terrible for you. It seems like there’s a new study released every week on the benefits or evils of soy. So, what’s the verdict?

“The problem with soy is that it is almost always genetically modified,” says Dr. Morrison. The reason soy was modified in the first place was to increase crop yield and make it resistant to pests, he explains. “As a result, many people are allergic to it, which results in bloating and gassiness.”

Another reason soy is on the not-so-good list is that it contains phytoestrogens, which can make you have irregular or extra crampy periods. “A small amount of soy can be beneficial, but if you’re a vegan and eating it two or three times a day, the negative effects start kicking in,” explains Dr. Morrison. These include blocking absorption of vitamin K and B12, zinc, calcium, and magnesium, according to an article in the Nutrition Digest.

Breathe easy sushi fans: Edamame is off the hook. “A serving of up to 20 bean pods once a week or so is fine,” Morrison says. If you’re a veggie and can’t give up soy, look for tempeh, made with fermented soy beans; the fermenting process negates the negative effects of soy. Read the labels of snack bars and pre-made smoothies to see if they contain soy.

Photo: Via Amazon