Soy Protein --- What Are Its Benefits?

The Wondrous Benefits of Soy Protein

 

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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 the complete protein chain 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. For those of you who are lactose intolerant, you will be pleased to know that soy beans contain no lactose. Which is why many of those who are lactose intolerant choose to drink soy milk.

Since soy is a plant protein, it is free from  the steroids and antibiotics animal protein contains. It is also free from the parasites that contaminate some of these products. Moreover, they contain none of the diseases one can contract from meat sources such as Mad Cow Disease, and Foot and Mouth Disease.
Vegetarians love this bean since it provides a comparable – if not better – source of protein as compared to its animal counterpart,  being easier to digest and comparable to most protein supplements.

Soy Beans are Very Versatile

The versatility of the soy bean is well documented. 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.
For other uses of the soy bean, visit: Uses of the Soy Bean

Some have even suggested that to counter the problem of world hunger, soybeans should be grown in greater volume. Why? Because soybeans  are easy to grow and harvest. They will grow pretty much anywhere and produce much in a little time. There are farmers who have reported replacing their entire crop line with soy bean plants. These hardy little plants produce a geater volume per harvest when compared to other crops.

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, 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 processed 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.
 
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 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.