Does soy affect hormone levels?

Research indicates that soy does not adversely affect hormone levels. Studies show no significant impact on testosterone or estrogen levels in both men and women, regardless of soy intake. Matthew Nagra explains that even at high levels, soy consumption does not lower testosterone in men or raise estrogen levels 1. For women, limited increases in some secondary hormones, like FSH and LH, were observed, but these did not translate to significant changes in estrogen 2.

Additionally, soy contains phytoestrogens, which are much weaker than human estrogen. These compounds can sometimes even dampen estrogenic effects rather than amplify them 3. The evidence supports that soy can be part of a healthy diet without causing hormonal disruption, with benefits like reduced risks of certain cancers and relief from menopausal symptoms 1 4.