BOGOR - The issue of the dangers of consuming tempeh for men has once again become a discussion in the community. This concern arises because of the content of phytoestrogens in soybeans which are considered to be able to affect the balance of hormones in men.
Professor of the Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, IPB University, Prof. Ahmad Sulaeman, explained that the compounds in tempeh do have a chemical structure similar to estrogen hormones, but do not have the same function in the human body.
"Actually, it is a compound whose chemical formula is similar to estrogen, but not the same. Isoflavone compounds such as daidzein and genistein have similar structures, but do not automatically have functions like estrogen," said Ahmad in his statement, Saturday, March 7.
He explained that phytoestrogens are natural compounds from plants that are structurally similar to estrogen hormones. However, their biological effects are much weaker than estrogen hormones produced by the human body.
According to Ahmad, several studies have indeed linked soy consumption with the possibility of reducing testosterone hormones or reducing fertility in men. This is due to the phytoestrogenic properties that can interact with hormone receptors in the body. However, this effect is generally only seen at very high consumption and does not reflect normal daily eating patterns.
"Phytoestrogens can bind to hormone receptors, but their activity is very weak compared to natural estrogen hormones. In normal consumption, tempeh will not lower fertility or male hormones," he said.
He added, misunderstandings often arise because people only see the similarity of names or compound structures without understanding the biological mechanism. Phytoestrogens from plants do not work like estrogen hormones in humans.
Prof. Ahmad also explained that the level of phytoestrogens in tempe is relatively lower than that of other processed soy products such as soy milk or soy-based supplements. The fermentation process in tempe even helps break down complex compounds into forms that are easier for the body to digest.
In addition, tempeh is known as a good source of nutrition because it contains high protein, fermented vitamin B12, iron, and fiber that are beneficial for digestive health and body metabolism.
"There are no special restrictions because this is not a food additive. Consumption follows the adequacy of nutrition, according to the individual's protein needs," he explained.
He also added that tempe is one of the important food choices for vegetarians and vegans because it contains vitamin B12 which is generally found in animal foods.
Therefore, Ahmad emphasized that tempeh is not harmful to men if consumed normally. In fact, its nutritional content makes tempeh one of the healthy foods that can be consumed by all circles.
"Tempe is not harmful for men. With its complete protein and nutritional content, tempe is a healthy food choice that can be consumed by all circles," he said.
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