Anew Start Allergy Clinic

03/11/2026

Great information on Soy for those who’ve been asking….for years. I usually test people to make sure there’s no sensitivity, but otherwise agree it is a great source of protein, especially for those trying to eat more plant based. And as with all foods, stay away from highly processed sources.

The most misunderstood food in nutrition you should be eating.

Misinformation unfortunately plagues the online world.

Everyone seems to have something to say about health and wellness.

Nutrition is probably the area most affected.

We all eat. We all have personal experience with food.

Because of that, many people feel qualified to speak with authority on nutrition, even when the science says otherwise.

As a result, many nutrition myths continue to circulate online long after evidence has disproven them. Once a narrative takes hold on the internet, it spreads quickly and becomes very difficult to reverse.

Soy foods are a perfect example.

The other day I posted about soy being a healthy food.

The reaction in the comments section reminded me how much confusion still surrounds this topic.

Few foods have generated as much misunderstanding as soy, even though soy is simply a legume. It belongs in the same family as beans, chickpeas, and lentils. It’s not a hormone. It’s not a pharmaceutical.

It’s literally a bean.

Yet it has somehow become one of the most misunderstood foods in modern nutrition.

Nutritionally, soy is quite remarkable.

It is a complete protein, meaning it contains all essential amino acids in sufficient quantities to meet daily requirements.

It also provides fiber, protein, calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.

For centuries it has been part of traditional dietary patterns associated with longevity and good health.

Much of the controversy surrounding soy traces back to high dose isoflavone experiments conducted in rodents decades ago.

Those findings were widely extrapolated beyond their original context and amplified through media coverage and online discussions.

Over time, these early hypotheses became embedded in public perception, even as human evidence began to tell a very different story.

Today the human data are remarkably consistent.

Soy consumption is associated with reduced cardiovascular risk, lower overall mortality, and improved cancer outcomes, without adverse hormonal effects in humans.

When one of my followers recently shared my post about soy foods, the comment section quickly became heated.

One person (not a doctor, not nutritionist, not a dietitian) even wrote that I had lost all credibility by posting about soy.

I actually find it quite sad to see how much misinformation still surrounds these foods.

The scientific literature paints a very different picture.

Clinical trials and meta analyses consistently show that soy protein lowers LDL cholesterol and reduces risk of coronary heart disease.

Large prospective cohort studies also show that soy does not increase breast cancer recurrence or mortality. In fact, several studies suggest the opposite.

Higher soy intake has been associated with lower recurrence rates and lower overall mortality among breast cancer survivors. These associations have been observed regardless of estrogen receptor status and even among women taking tamoxifen.

Concerns about phytoestrogens are understandable, but they are often misunderstood.

Soy contains compounds called isoflavones. These molecules are classified as phytoestrogens because they can bind to estrogen receptors.

However, they do not behave like human estrogen. Instead, they function as selective estrogen receptor modulators, often abbreviated as SERMs. Their biological effects depend on the tissue and the surrounding hormonal environment.

Yes, nutrition science is complex and I don’t blame you for feeling confused.

Large reviews that have examined hundreds of studies have found zero adverse effects on estrogen levels, breast tissue, or endometrial tissue in women.

They have also not found negative effects on testosterone levels or s***m parameters in men.

Despite this, the myth persists that soy will feminize men or lead to gynecomastia, also called “man boobs”.

Weirdly, men who eat westernized diets are actually the ones who are at much higher risk of having gynecomastia. Funny how no one talks about that though.

In practical terms, whole soy foods such as tofu, tempeh, edamame, and soy milk can easily fit into a healthy dietary pattern.

They are nutrient dense, versatile, and affordable. They provide high quality protein without the saturated fat and heme iron commonly found in many animal proteins.

The persistence of soy myths illustrates a broader issue in nutrition science.

Early hypotheses often linger long after the evidence has evolved.

Once a simple narrative spreads online, it becomes surprisingly resistant to correction.

But when we focus on the totality of human evidence rather than animal models or isolated compounds, the conclusion becomes quite clear.

Soy is not a threat.

It is one of the most studied foods in nutrition science.

And when consumed as whole foods within a balanced dietary pattern, it fits comfortably among the foods that support long term health.

People who continue to demonize soy foods online are often relying on outdated or misinterpreted information rather than current evidence.

💚 Dr. Jules



If you wish to see the data, I’ve attached it below.

If you don’t change your mind after reading it, then I’m afraid I can’t help you and you may want to get your nutrition information from someone else.

1.
Soy Isoflavone Intake and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Adults: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies.
Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. 2024. Naghshi S, Tutunchi H, Yousefi M, et al.
2.
Soy, Soy Isoflavones, and Protein Intake in Relation to Mortality From All Causes, Cancers, and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies.
Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2019. Nachvak SM, Moradi S, Anjom-Shoae J, et al.
3.
Neither Soyfoods Nor Isoflavones Warrant Classification as Endocrine Disruptors: A Technical Review of the Observational and Clinical Data.
Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. 2021. Messina M, Mejia SB, Cassidy A, et al.
4.
Herbal Medications in Cardiovascular Medicine.
Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2017. Liperoti R, Vetrano DL, Bernabei R, Onder G.
5.
A Meta-Analysis of 46 Studies Identified by the FDA Demonstrates That Soy Protein Decreases Circulating LDL and Total Cholesterol Concentrations in Adults.
The Journal of Nutrition. 2019. Blanco Mejia S, Messina M, Li SS, et al.
6.
Soy Protein, Isoflavones, and Cardiovascular Health: An American Heart Association Science Advisory for Professionals From the Nutrition Committee.
Circulation. 2006. Sacks FM, Lichtenstein A, Van Horn L, et al.Guideline
7.
Survivorship.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Updated 2026-02-02.
8.
American Cancer Society Nutrition and Physical Activity Guideline for Cancer Survivors.
CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2022. Rock CL, Thomson CA, Sullivan KR, et al.Guideline
9.
Soy Food Intake After Diagnosis of Breast Cancer and Survival: An in-Depth Analysis of Combined Evidence From Cohort Studies of US and Chinese Women.
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2012. Nechuta SJ, Caan BJ, Chen WY, et al.
10.
Soy, Red Clover, and Isoflavones and Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review.
PloS One. 2013. Fritz H, Seely D, Flower G, et al.
11.
Soy Food Intake and Breast Cancer Survival.
The Journal of the American Medical Association. 2009. Shu XO, Zheng Y, Cai H, et al.
12.
Phytoestrogens and Breast Cancer: Should French Recommendations Evolve?.
Cancers. 2022. Mauny A, Faure S, Derbré S.
13.
Effects of Soy Protein and Isoflavones on Circulating Hormone Concentrations in Pre- And Post-Menopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Human Reproduction Update. 2009. Hooper L, Ryder JJ, Kurzer MS, et al.
14.
Effect of Soy Isoflavones on Measures of Estrogenicity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Advances in Nutrition. 2024. Viscardi G, Back S, Ahmed A, et al.
15.
Soy Foods, Isoflavones, and the Health of Postmenopausal Women.
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2014. Messina M.
16.
Use of Plant-Based Therapies and Menopausal Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
The Journal of the American Medical Association. 2016. Franco OH, Chowdhury R, Troup J, et al.
17.
Trending Cardiovascular Nutrition Controversies.
Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2017. Freeman AM, Morris PB, Barnard N, et al.
18.
American Cancer Society Guideline for Diet and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention.
CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2020. Rock CL, Thomson C, Gansler T, et al.Guideline
19.
Soy and Isoflavone Consumption and Multiple Health Outcomes: Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Observational Studies and Randomized Trials in Humans.
Molecular Nutrition & Food Research. 2020. Li N, Wu X, Zhuang W, et al.

12/06/2025

Update

Seasons Greetings everyone! I apologize for my updates not being more regular, but healing has its own timeline and I wanted to be able to give you all a definite date for our re-opening.

I’m happy to report that I’m feeling so much better, well rested, full of energy and eager to get back to the work I love, but with a much lighter schedule. Our official date of re-opening will be December 16th. I’ll be working 2 days a week for December (16th and 17th, 22nd and 23rd, 29th and 30th) Hours will be 10 am -12:30 pm and 2 pm - 4:30 pm. Hopefully if all goes well, I’ll go up to three days a week in January working Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, same hours as above. We will be calling those who are on our waiting list and if you’re not sure, or want to get in, feel free to call and leave a message and one of us will get back to you in the coming week.

I’m also very excited to announce that Jasmine Graham, Midwife and Founder, President and Clinical Director of Spring Midwives will be joining us at the clinic. For more information on her company, please have a look at her website. (springmidwives.ca) We feel she’ll be a wonderful addition to our space and look forward to working alongside of her.

Once again, thanks to everyone for your understanding and continuing support over these last few months. Although it’s been difficult at times and a challenge, it’s also been a wonderful gift of healing, rest and realizing the power and love of community. Thank you! ❤️

11/14/2025

Update

First of all I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for all the love and support we’ve received during this challenging time for my family. The calls and messages, the cards and flowers, the gifts of food, the many offers of support and services, and the very generous donations to the GoFundMe started by my kids. You have truly overwhelmed us with your kindness, and I don’t think I’ve ever felt so loved, supported and grateful -which is so healing in itself. ❤️

I’m happy to report that we are both improving, slowly but consistently. Our bodies have such an amazing ability to heal, when provided with the right conditions. We’re both learning to be patient with ourselves and the healing process as we mindfully move through our days with more self compassion and intention. As difficult as it has been, we are fully aware of what a gift it is to be able to heal together, in the comfort of our home, surrounded by so much love and support.

I do however really miss my work and my patients, and I’m hoping I’ll be back sometime in December, with a lighter schedule. I assure you all (and my family) that I won’t rush it, and won’t return until I know I’m ready, and at my best. I will keep you posted when I’m more sure of my date of return.

With love and gratitude,
Lori and Jeff Shea

10/26/2025

To my dear patients,

I’m sad to report that the clinic will be closed for the next couple of weeks, possibly longer. Many of you are aware of the sudden health crisis my husband has experienced this summer, and was subsequently hospitalized for two and a half months. I did my best to keep the clinic running, although there were many times I had to cancel or rearrange appointments and I apologize for that, I know it was frustrating but you were all so kind and understanding.

I finally got him home but unfortunately have ended up in hospital myself, I’m sure related to the stress of all of that. I have received wonderful care here, and I’m hoping to get home soon myself. But I have been warned that I need to take adequate time to recover. Some have suggested I should retire, but if you know me, you know how much I love my work, and I honestly am not ready for that. So I apologize for being temporarily unavailable, but I know this time is needed for healing.

I also want to thank everyone for their support through the Go Fund Me set up by my kids, for delivering meals, and all the offers of help and support. I can’t tell you how much it means to me. It’s been overwhelming and humbling, and I am filled with gratitude. I hope to see you all soon! ❤️

Sincerely,
Lori Shea

09/20/2025

🔴 Did you know that Anew Start now offers Red Light Therapy? We have a large body panel that provides both Red and Near Infrared Light at a very affordable cost, only $90 for 6 sessions. Sessions begin at 10 minutes and work up to 20 and most clients find the sessions to be wonderfully relaxing.

The benefits of RLT according to many studies include:

*Increasing energy levels by promoting release of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) from cells’ mitochondria
*Stimulating DNA/RNA synthesis
*Activating the lymphatic system, an important part of our immune system that helps carry waste out of the body
*Increasing blood flow/circulation, thereby helping bring more oxygen and nutrients to our cells and tissues
*Forming new capillaries (small blood vessels)
*Improving natural production of collagen and fibroblasts, important for skin care and joint and digestive health
*Repairing and restoring damaged soft connective tissue
*Stimulating or decreasing inflammation, which helps control our natural healing capabilities
*Lowering effects of oxidative stress/free radical damage, which is associated with many effects of aging

The light panel we use has been independently tested at the aptly-named Independent Testing Laboratories in Boulder, Colorado. One of the first light testing laboratories in North America. ITL is the gold standard for unbiased third-party light and photometric testing. With 60 years of experience and a strict adherence to the guidelines of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA), it’s the go-to testing lab for lighting manufacturers, architects, governments, and many other organizations across the country and beyond.

Feel free to give us a call if you have questions or would like to book a session. 506-472-3010

07/22/2025

Official 2025 Community Voting Awards Platform for Fredericton, NB. Where the community votes for their favourites every year.

07/01/2025

🇨🇦 Happy Canada Day from all of us at Anew Start 🇨🇦

I’ve never been so grateful to live in Canada. We’re not perfect but we live in a country that values freedom and democracy. We are privileged in many ways. But I realize that privilege comes with a responsibility and that each of us must do our part to protect our human rights and to stand up for ALL of us, despite our many differences, in whatever small way we can. Keep buying Canadian and support our your local economy, make your dollars count! Have a great day everyone! ❤️

03/25/2025

These are among the most common of food sensitivities and many people may be surprised to learn that they can cause far more than digestive disorders! The other most common symptoms seen with these food sensitivities are; headaches, migraines, chronic sinus congestion, fatigue, body inflammation and pain, eczema and other unexplained rashes, hives, and even anxiety or depression. If you want to investigate the CAUSE rather than just treat the symptoms, give us a call!

03/22/2025

Amy Schumer once shared these inspirational words:

“When we’re little girls, we have all the confidence in the world. We let our bellies hang out, and we just dance and play and pick our wedgies. And then these things happen that just make us question ourselves. Somebody says something mean to you on the playground and then we grow up. And you doubt yourself over and over again until you lose all that confidence; all that self-esteem; all the faith you started with is gone. But what if we didn’t let those moments get to us? What if we were stronger than that? What if we didn’t care about how we looked, or how we sounded? What if we never lost that little girl confidence? What if when someone tells us that we aren’t good or thin or pretty enough, we have the strength and the wisdom to say 'What I am is better than all that. Because what I am is me. I am me. And I’m proud to be me.'"

I love this quote. ❤️

03/08/2025

Celebrating International Women’s Day

It’s not any easy time we’re living through, maybe there are no easy times. Women have faced oppression on so many levels throughout history. We’ve had to fight for every right we have and we’re still fighting.

I believe women have the power to change the world, and God knows, the world needs it right now. I’ve been very fortunate to have great women in my life, who’ve loved me, encouraged me, supported me, who lifted me up when I fell and cheered for my successes. And I’ve made a conscious effort in my life, to do the same for other women.

When we lift another woman up, it not only encourages others to do the same, but that woman you supported, will always remember it, and will be more likely to do the same going forward. Let’s continue to stand united, and together, we can rise up.

Thanks to all the wonderful women I’ve met over the last 25 years who have supported me and my little clinic, and who support all the other women entrepreneurs. We love you and thank you. ❤️

Lori

Art by Drawsy minimalist