It’s said that soy beans were introduced to the US in 1765 by Samuel Bowen, a sailor who had traveled to China. However, it was not until the 1900s that soy beans served a significant agronomic role for the country.

Prior to the Second World War, the US was largely importing edible fats and oils. Because the war disrupted the set trade routes, the US had to find an alternative source and so started to process soy beans for its edible oil. In the 1930s, cultivation of soy beans was greatly encouraged in the drought-stricken states as the crop had soil rehabilitating properties.

Currently, soy beans are touted as this century’s wonder food. Soy beans do contain significant amounts of all the essential amino acids, thus making it a complete source of protein. While this is the case, not everyone may be able to take advantage of soy beans’ nutritional benefits.

Continue reading to discover some of the negative effects of soy beans (and be sure to also check out the recommended soak times for beans, grains, legumes, nuts and rice.) Continue reading →