Discover How Soy Protein Benefits Health

By Beryl Dalton


A long-time staple of vegetarians and people who are lactose intolerant, soy is considered to be an excellent source of dietary protein. Soybeans which are a crop that is native to southeast Asia are dried, processed, and used to manufacture a variety of foods and supplements. Rich in isoflavones, lecithin, and fiber, soy protein benefits the body in a multitude of ways.

Soy is something that can be enjoyed in a large selection of different foods and beverages. It is commonly used as a substitute for meat or milk and can be used to produce milk, cheese, yogurt, butter, ice cream, hot dogs, tofu, and powdered supplements. Soybeans are dried and ground into flour which is then added to soups, pastries, and fillers for sausages. Infants who cannot tolerate lactose, may be given a soy-based formula.

There has been some research conducted which suggests there is a connection between consuming high amounts of dietary soy, and protection from some forms of cancer, namely breast and prostate cancers. This is believed to be due to the effect of a phytochemical known as "genistein" which works to prevent tumors from vascularizing, thus halting their growth.

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.

The harmful effects of LDL, also known as "bad" cholesterol can be effectively combated by eating supplements and foods made from soy. Cholesterol molecules are disintegrated by this protein which attacks their plasma. Good cholesterol, or HDL is not affected. Men have been shown to respond particularly well in this sense, and by including four servings of soy per day, they can reduce their LDL by up to 10 percent, further research is aimed at determining if this is also true with female subjects.

Diabetics can use it to assist them in maintaining acceptable levels of glucose in the blood, and balance fats and insulin too. People who are dieting will find a tasty soy-shake to be the perfect complement to their weight loss program, as it makes one feel full longer, and helps prevent the tendency to overeat.

The hot flashes of menopause have also been shown to occur less often in women who increase their intake of this nutrient, most likely because of its high phytoestrogen content. Furthermore, it is also considered to help balance bone density and calcium in the body, which is essential in the prevention of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women.

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.




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