Can drinking soy milk with brown sugar cause poisoning?
Nov 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
Brown sugar mainly contains sucrose, while soy milk is rich in protein and calcium. When mixed, the organic acids in brown sugar may bind with the protein in soy milk, forming precipitates that reduce protein utilization. However, these precipitates generally do not produce toxic substances, and consuming small amounts has little impact on health. The main concerns are a possible deterioration in the taste of soy milk and reduced nutrient absorption.
Generally, adding brown sugar to soy milk does not cause poisoning, but it may affect nutrient absorption or lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. If any adverse reactions occur, medical advice should be sought promptly. The detailed analysis is as follows:
Brown sugar mainly consists of sucrose, while soy milk is rich in protein and calcium. When mixed, organic acids in brown sugar may bind with the protein in soy milk, forming precipitates that reduce protein bioavailability. However, these precipitates typically do not produce toxic substances, and consuming small amounts has little impact on health—though they may impair the taste of soy milk and reduce nutrient absorption.
For individuals with weak digestive systems, symptoms such as bloating or indigestion may occur after consumption. This is because the precipitates remain in the gastrointestinal tract for longer periods, increasing the digestive burden. The discomfort becomes more pronounced when excessive amounts of brown sugar are added.
When drinking soy milk daily, if flavoring is desired, it is recommended to add only a small amount of brown sugar and avoid overuse. People with sensitive digestive systems should preferably choose plain soy milk or use milder alternatives to brown sugar to reduce gastrointestinal strain.
