Sunday, February 15, 2015

Discover How Soy Protein Benefits Health

By Beryl Dalton


Soy has gained attention in recent years as a good alternative source of protein for those who cannot or choose not to eat meat and dairy. Derived from the soybean which is indigenous to southeast Asia, soy is also rich in fiber, isoflavones, and lecithin. Eating foods or supplements which contain soy protein benefits one's health in numerous ways.

Soy is something that can be enjoyed in a large selection of different foods and beverages. It is commonly used as a substitute for meat or milk and can be used to produce milk, cheese, yogurt, butter, ice cream, hot dogs, tofu, and powdered supplements. Soybeans are dried and ground into flour which is then added to soups, pastries, and fillers for sausages. Infants who cannot tolerate lactose, may be given a soy-based formula.

Some studies have indicated that a high amount of dietary soy can offer some protection against certain types of cancer, in particular prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women. A phytochemical called "genistein" is thought to prevent tumors from forming the vascular networks needed for growth. More research is needed to further support this theory, but preliminary findings have shown a connection between the two.

The health of the heart and blood vessels is improved by a soy-rich diet as well. Risk of heart attack is reduced by the active isoflavones and phytoestrogens which help promote dilation of the coronary arteries and unobstructed blood flow. Patients with hypertension can also experience healthier blood pressure levels.

The harmful effects of LDL, also known as "bad" cholesterol can be effectively combated by eating supplements and foods made from soy. Cholesterol molecules are disintegrated by this protein which attacks their plasma. Good cholesterol, or HDL is not affected. Men have been shown to respond particularly well in this sense, and by including four servings of soy per day, they can reduce their LDL by up to 10 percent, further research is aimed at determining if this is also true with female subjects.

People who are trying to lose weight as well as diabetics who need to keep their blood glucose levels in check can also benefit from the intake of this powerful protein. Levels of glucose, insulin, and fat in the blood is aided in its regulation by the ingestion of soy-rich foods or supplementary shakes. Weight control is made easier, as the proteins are slow to digest and help one feel full for a longer time, reducing the tendency to overeat.

Women who are experiencing menopause and are troubled with hot flashes, have found that this problem occurs less often when they are regularly consuming soy-based foods or supplements. Additionally, it has been given credit for keeping the body's calcium stores and bone density in check, which plays a key role in preventing osteoporosis in post-menopausal women.

Bodybuilders, athletes, and anyone training for a sporting event would be wise to drink a daily protein-shake if they want to maximize their lean muscle development and performance. It facilitates faster recovery and reduces inflammation following a workout, which not only means less pain but also bigger muscles and more energy.




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