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
Soybeans contain
complete protein and have one of the best protein digestibilities among all
protein sources. Soybeans also contain little or no fat and have virtually no
cholesterol. Lactose intolerant ones will be pleased to know that soybeans
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
Soybeans are very
versatile. Various cuisines, especially Asian ones recognize the value of the
humble soybean. 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 hoisin 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 soybean 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 lines 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 a 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.