Superfood Soy?

SupermarketGuru recently talked about the various types of soy products. But the main question people are asking is, are soy foods healthy? Unfortunately that point in widely debated, but it seems if properly prepared and in moderation, soy can be excellent for good health.

 

Here are some various health benefits that have been linked to soy:

 

Soy products are protein and fiber-rich, as well as being a great source of omega-3 fats and disease-fighting isoflavones that promote heart health and reduce the risk of cancers of the prostate and breast. In addition, soy contains phytoestrogens which may counter natural estrogen’s negative effects on women—such as formation of uterine fibroids—and lessen menopausal symptoms.

 

Antioxidants: Soy foods contain antioxidants - compounds that protect cells from damage caused by unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals.

 

Cholesterol: In 38 studies involving 730 people, the connection between soy consumption and low cholesterol levels was strong. Those with diets where half the protein was soy had 10 percent lower cholesterol than those not eating soy. Saponins and phytosterols in soy are thought to bind cholesterol in the gut, and help it pass through our GI tract. 

 

Hot flashes: Menopausal symptoms are almost immediately responsive to isoflavones. Often, within weeks of beginning soy consumption, women experience a 25 percent drop in hot flashes. Isoflavones are also thought to be antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory and more!

 

Immunity: Soybean peptides (chains of amino acids) can boost the immune system, helping the body fight disease.

 

An adequate serving to reap the benefits of soy, is just a cup of soymilk or just two ounces (or half a serving) of tofu per day - that's not a lot! When consumed in larger amounts soy's consumption becomes controversial in its health benefits; soy falls into a category of foods known as goitrogens - vegetables, grains and foods that interfere with thyroid function. Speak with you physician or nutritionist to determine if soy foods, in moderation, are right for you.

 

For more about soy and decoding the different types, click here.