Discover How Soy Protein Benefits Health

By Beryl Dalton


People who are allergic to dairy products or have chosen not to eat meat often rely on soy as an alternative source of protein. This substance is derived from the soybean which is native to southeast Asia, and besides proteins it is also packed with lecithin, fiber, and isoflavones, all of which promote good health. A diet that includes food and supplements containing soy protein benefits many systems of the body.

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.

Studies conducted have produced findings which would suggest that consuming high amounts of soy in one's diet offers some degree of protection against breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men. This is thought to be due to the presence of the phytochemical "genistein" which disrupts tumor growth by preventing the formation of vascular networks. Research continues to be carried out in this area to further substantiate this evidence.

Cardiac health is also improved. It is believed that the phytoestrogens and isoflavones it contains are responsible for the dilation of coronary arteries, which keeps blood flowing properly through the heart and cuts the risk for myocardial infarction. This can also result in regulation of healthy blood pressure and keep it at safe levels in patients afflicted with hypertension.

People who regularly consume soy-rich food or supplement shakes may have lower LDLs, which is the harmful or "bad" type of cholesterol. Apparently the soy protein breaks down the plasma in LDL cholesterol, but fortunately this does not happen with the healthier HDL cholesterol. Existing research has revealed this to be true mainly in men, who can expect their LDL levels to be reduced by up to 10 percent, but more research is required to prove whether the same is true in women or not.

Blood levels of glucose, as well as insulin, and fats, can be regulated by having a high intake of this potent protein, which is good news for both diabetic patients and people who are trying to lose weight. Many dieters include protein shakes as part of their diet plan since they can be very effective for making one feel satiated, and less prone to overeating.

Women going through menopause have also shown some positive health effects when increasing the amount of these nutrients they consume. Improvement has been noted in the reduced incidence of hot flashes in some women. It is also understood to promote the balance of calcium and bone density, which is needed to prevent osteoporosis in women who are post-menopausal.

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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