Soy
protein is emerging as one of the great alternative protein
sources for human consumption. Health experts are all excited
about how soy protein can change the face of nutrition. What’s
all the rage? Here are some great reasons to get with soy
protein.
Soy Protein is Plant Protein
Soy beans contain complete protein and have one of the best
protein digestibilities among all protein sources. Soy beans
also contain little or no fat and have virtually no cholesterol.
Lactose intolerant ones will be pleased to know that soy beans
contain no lactose.
Being a plant protein, soy is free from steroids and antibiotics
animal protein contains. It is also free from the parasites that
contaminate some of these products. They also contain none of
the diseases one can contract from mean sources such as Mad Cow
Disease, and Foot and Mouth Disease.
Vegetarians love this bean as it provides a comparable – if not
better – source of protein as compared to its animal
counterpart. It provides a protein that is better and easier to
digest and is comparable to most protein supplements.
Soy Beans are Very Versatile
Soy beans are very versatile. Various cuisines, especially Asian
ones recognize the value of the humble soy bean. A variety of
naturally yummy delicacies are all soy based: tofu, soy pudding,
Soya milk, and meat substitutes – not to mention condiments such
as soy sauce, and hoi sin sauce.
To counter the problem of world hunger, the growing of soybeans
has been suggested. Not only are soybeans easy to grow and
harvest, they will grow pretty much anywhere and produces much
in a little time. There have been farmers reported to have
replaced their entire crop line with soy bean plants. These
hardy little plants produce much per harvest, and, as said
earlier, can grow in even the most trying terrain.
The Great Substitute
Soy is low in fat and can be used to substitute most protein
sources. When cooking, you may use soy substitutes instead of
flour for a low fat alternative. This makes it a great protein
source for those that are looking to lose weight without
compromising their protein requirements.
Bodybuilders are considering how this can make their jobs a lot
easier. Without the fat and with all the protein goodness –
easily digestible at that – bodybuilding has just received a
great blessing of a food.
Although these bodybuilders are currently debating how soy can
be a help to bodybuilders, it doesn’t take away anything from
what soy can contribute to the overall health of a person.
It is very advisable to stick to natural protein rather than
processes protein if possible, as processed foods typically have
some risk attached to them. The best use of this food can be
attributed to how it perfectly fits into anyone’s low-fat,
high-protein diet.
Soy products can be incorporated into shakes and drinks. And
being lactose-free, lactose intolerant people will still be able
to get their milkshake fix without having to suffer so.
Soy products are also a great source of other nutrients such as
saponins, isoflavones, and phytosterol. Saponins help support a
healthy immune system. It also combines with cholesterol to
avoid increased absorption of cholesterol in the body.
Phytosterols also help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in
the body in the same way saponins do.
Isoflavones are powerful antioxidants and prevent the effects of
free radicals in the body. They prevent many of the signs of
aging and have been known to help prevent cancer. This alone
makes soy a miracle protein source in its own right.
Isoflavones, along with vitamins A,C, and E are among the front
liners in the fight against such disease – they also counter the
effects of pollution, and stress.
How Much is Too Much
Unlike other protein sources, it is pretty safe to consume a
wide amount of soy products. While allergies to soy products
exist, cases are few and far between. When changing to a soy
diet, however, it would be best to consult your physician or
your nutritionist. Ask specifically if the soy interferes with
any prescription drugs you are taking.
Soy can be great blessing for people who are looking for a great
source of protein that does not entail the side effects of most
of the other sources. It would be advisable for one to explore
how it can improve one’s diet.
Other
Valuable Weight Loss, Health, and Dieting Websites:
WebMD.com
MayoClinic.com
About.com
CNN Health
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