By the way, doctor: Do soy products cause thyroid problems?
Q. I read that soy can cause a low thyroid condition. What do you know about this?
A. Although many people consider soy to be part of a healthy diet, there have been persistent concerns about its effects on the thyroid gland. Animal studies dating back as far as 1959 have suggested that certain chemical components of soy — the isoflavones — may be linked to thyroid disorders, especially goiter and low thyroid. The two main soy isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, inhibit thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme necessary for making thyroid hormone. But luckily iodine blocks this antithyroid effect.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.