The issue of the dangers of tempeh consumption for men has once again become a topic of public discussion. These concerns arise due to the phytoestrogen content in soybeans, which is believed to disrupt male hormone balance.
Through IPB Pedia, which airs on the IPB TV YouTube channel, Professor Ahmad Sulaeman, Professor at the Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition at IPB University, explained that the compounds in tempeh do have a chemical structure similar to estrogen, but they do not have the same function in the human body.
“Actually, it is a compound with a chemical formula similar to estrogen, but it is not the same. Compounds like isoflavones, such as daidzein and genistein, do have a similar structure, but they don’t automatically function like estrogen,” he said.
According to him, misunderstandings often arise because people only see the similarity in names or compound structures without understanding the biological mechanisms. He emphasized that phytoestrogens from plants do not work like estrogen hormones in humans.
Fermentation Actually Makes Tempeh Safer
Prof Ahmad explained that the phytoestrogen content in tempeh is even lower than in other soy products such as soy milk or soy based supplements. The fermentation process in tempeh helps break down complex compounds into forms that are easier for the body to digest.
In addition, tempeh is high in protein, contains vitamin B12 produced during fermentation, iron, and fiber, which play an important role in digestive health and metabolism.
“There are no specific restrictions because it is not a food additive. Consumption should follow nutritional adequacy levels, according to each individual’s protein needs,” he explained.
He added that tempeh is an excellent food choice for vegetarians and vegans because it contains vitamin B12, which is generally only found in animal based foods.
Safe to Consume in Reasonable Portions
Prof Ahmad emphasized that tempeh is not harmful to men. In fact, its nutritional content makes tempe a healthy food that can be consumed by everyone as long as it is prepared properly and consumed in reasonable amounts.
“Tempe is not harmful to men. In fact, with its complete protein and nutritional content, tempe is a healthy food choice that can be consumed by everyone,” he said. (Fj) (IAAS/SSR)
