Discover How Soy Protein Benefits Health

By Beryl Dalton


Soy has gained attention in recent years as a good alternative source of protein for those who cannot or choose not to eat meat and dairy. Derived from the soybean which is indigenous to southeast Asia, soy is also rich in fiber, isoflavones, and lecithin. Eating foods or supplements which contain soy protein benefits one's health in numerous ways.

There are many ways in which a person can add soy to his or her diet. It is used to prepare a wide range of foods in place of milk or meat and can be made into butter, milk, ice cream, yogurt, hot dogs, cheese, tofu, and powdered shakes. Dried soybeans can be made into flour as well, and used for baked products, soups, and as a filler for sausages. Soy-based infant formulas provide a suitable feeding option for babies who are lactose intolerant.

Studies conducted have produced findings which would suggest that consuming high amounts of soy in one's diet offers some degree of protection against breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men. This is thought to be due to the presence of the phytochemical "genistein" which disrupts tumor growth by preventing the formation of vascular networks. Research continues to be carried out in this area to further substantiate this evidence.

Cardiac health is also improved. It is believed that the phytoestrogens and isoflavones it contains are responsible for the dilation of coronary arteries, which keeps blood flowing properly through the heart and cuts the risk for myocardial infarction. This can also result in regulation of healthy blood pressure and keep it at safe levels in patients afflicted with hypertension.

Lowering LDL or "bad" cholesterol by as much as 10 percent is yet another advantage of eating soy-rich food or supplement shakes. Soy protein breaks apart the plasma in this potentially harmful type of cholesterol, but it does not affect HDL, or "good" cholesterol in this way. This effect has been noted in particular in men, who can benefit considerably by including four servings of this protein in their daily food consumption, more research is needed to determine if the same is true for women.

People who are trying to lose weight as well as diabetics who need to keep their blood glucose levels in check can also benefit from the intake of this powerful protein. Levels of glucose, insulin, and fat in the blood is aided in its regulation by the ingestion of soy-rich foods or supplementary shakes. Weight control is made easier, as the proteins are slow to digest and help one feel full for a longer time, reducing the tendency to overeat.

Women going through menopause have also shown some positive health effects when increasing the amount of these nutrients they consume. Improvement has been noted in the reduced incidence of hot flashes in some women. It is also understood to promote the balance of calcium and bone density, which is needed to prevent osteoporosis in women who are post-menopausal.

Athletes, and bodybuilders may want to be sure to drink a soy-shake each day to help increase lean muscle in the body. Post-workout muscle recovery is assisted by this protein, leading to quicker recovery and less inflammation, resulting in bigger muscles, and less pain associated with the workout.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment