Soy is one of the most popular plant-based proteins in the world. It’s incredibly all-round and can be used in various dishes, from stir fries to smoothies. In fact, Soy products have become a popular source for vegans and vegetarians, as well as people looking for a healthy alternative to meat. From their sustainability to the variety of processes they can be utilized, there is more than what meets the eye with soy.
As a result, if you wish to learn more about these surprisingly versatile soy products, here are seven interesting facts that you might not know:
Soy Products are a Complete Source of Protein
Soy foods are nutritious sources of plant-based protein and are considered a complete source of protein. This means they contain all nine essential amino acids that the body needs and cannot produce independently. It is one of the reasons they are often a great vegan alternative to animal-based proteins like beef or chicken.
Soy protein is also easily digestible, making it an ideal choice if you have difficulty digesting other types of proteins. And you can enjoy Soy products in many ways, as they come in many forms, like tofu, tempeh, edamame, and soy milk. A serving of these soy foods can provide as much as 35% of the recommended daily amount (RDA) for protein.
Soy Products are Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants prevent cell damage caused by environmental pollutants like smog, radiation, and cigarette smoke. They work to neutralize free radicals, reducing inflammation and protecting cells from damage.
A 2018 study reveals that soy foods are rich in essential antioxidants like flavonoids, isoflavones, saponins, phenolic acids, and phytosterols.
Developing a diet rich in soy products can help protect your body from the damaging effects of free radicals and reduce the risk of cancer or other chronic illnesses. So next time you’re looking for a nutritious snack, reach for some soy products! They’ll provide plenty of antioxidants to keep your cells healthy and functioning optimally.
Soy Products May Reduce the Risk of Certain Types of Cancer
A 2019 meta-analysis study shows that soy can reduce the risk of breast cancer by 10%. The isoflavones in soy products have been attributed to this reduction due to their ability to prevent the growth of cells affected by this disease. However, research on the subject is inconclusive, and more studies must fully understand the effects of soy consumption on cancer risk.
But, it is an interesting fact that soy products may have some protective benefits against these chronic diseases and is undoubtedly a factor for consideration when looking at dietary modifications for preventing cancer.
Soy Products are a Source of Dietary Fiber
Soy products such as tempeh, edamame, soy milk, and tofu are great sources of dietary fiber. That means they can help keep your digestive system healthy, preventing constipation. Also, studies show that soy-based products can reduce blood sugar levels, making them an excellent choice for those with type 2 diabetes.
The dietary fiber in soy products has also been linked to improved cardiovascular health. A 2017 study shows that consuming foods high in soluble fiber may lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Soy Products are Considered an Anti-aging Food
Soy products are a great source of many nutrients, including proteins and fatty acids. They also contain components that help slow aging and improve overall health. Research shows that it includes isoflavone, an anti-photo aging agent which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin tone, leaving you with beautiful skin.
They are also rich in antioxidants which help repair and replenish damaged cells caused by free radicals. This helps slow down the signs of aging and keeps you looking young and healthy for longer.
Soy also has Vitamin E, which helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other visible signs of aging. Therefore, by including soy in your diet, you can enjoy all its benefits, and a few servings a week should be enough to get these anti-aging benefits!
Conclusion
Soy products are a great source of nutrition and can be integrated into almost any form or type of your diet. Whether you’re looking for a vegan alternative to animal-based proteins or want to add more nutrition to your meals, soy is worth considering! However, if you still need to decide whether soy products are right for you, consider talking to your healthcare provider. They can help determine if soy suits your lifestyle and dietary needs. With their help, you can make sure you get the most out of soy products!
