10 Incredible Health Benefits Of Soy Proteins!

What is soy proteins?

Soy proteins are a legume that contains plant-based proteins. It is the best substitute for meat proteins that have low saturated fat with no cholesterol.

Types of soy proteins

Soy proteins fall under three categories and are as follows-

1. Soy protein isolate-This is the highest quality soy protein available. It’s more refined and processed.
2. Soy protein concentrate-This is made by removing carbohydrates from dehulled soybeans.
3. Textured soy proteins-This is made from soy protein concentrate, usually found in animal-based sources.

What are the health benefits of soy proteins?

Soy protein is an alternative for animal-based proteins. But it is not just for the vegans or vegetarians! A non-vegetarian can also consume soy proteins because of their health benefits without compromising on taste. Here are ten incredible benefits of soy proteins –

1. Lowers cholesterol level

Soy proteins are highly beneficial to reduce the bad cholesterol known as LDL cholesterol. It helps to balance the LDL cholesterol level without impacting the level of good cholesterol or HDL cholesterol.

2. Boosts muscle growth

Daily consuming soy proteins can reduce the breakdown of lean muscles and also promote healthy muscle growth. A study suggests that soy stimulates muscle protein synthesis to boost your muscle strength and mass.

3. Controls Obesity & Diabetes

Soy proteins help to control blood sugar and reduce body weight. They induce insulin production in your body to control high sugar in the blood. Hence, soybeans are the best source to include in a diabetic diet.

4. Prevents Heart Diseases

Consumption of soy protein reduces the total cholesterol and triglycerides, which lower the chances of heart diseases. For a healthy heart, you should include soy proteins in your diet regularly. Doing so will not only help to reduce cholesterol but will also add to healthy veins and improve blood flow to the heart.

5. Energy Booster

Soy proteins are rich in essential amino acids that can easily be found in soy milk or tofu. These amino acids are utilized by our body and convert into energy.

6. Prevents Cancer

Genistein, which is a phytochemical found in soy can reduce the risk of cancer. Genistein blocks cancer development by preventing tumours from creating blood vessels that would provide nourishment for growth.

 

7. Pregnancy Tonic

Including soy products in your diet during pregnancy can be encouraged to receive various health benefits. Fortified milk and fortified soymilk are the only reliable dietary sources of vitamin D. This helps to make the mother and baby stronger. If mothers are lactose intolerant, then soy milk is the best alternative.

8. Reduces Menopausal Symptoms

Soy contains plant estrogens called- ‘soy isoflavones’ are similar to human estrogen hormone but less potent. These plant-based oestrogens are often used in women to blunt the effects of menopause. They protect women from severe bone calcium loss and help in maintaining a healthy heart. Phytoestrogens present in soy proteins help to balance calcium levels in the body and maintain stronger bones.

9. For Better Skin

Soy proteins are beneficial in various cosmetics and lotions that help to moisturize your skin. They are also useful to even the skin tone by reducing the pigmentation caused by sun exposure and hormonal changes. Soy proteins give flawless and shiny skin.

10. Gives a Kick to Your Digestive System

One of the main reasons why people suffer from constipation or loose motion is because of a lack of fibre in their system which is an essential component for the development of a healthy body. Fibre adds volume to your stool making your digestive system function smoothly and your bowel movements run easily in the morning. Fibre also boosts peristaltic motion (contraction of smooths muscles responsible for pushing food through the system). Soy contains a high quantity of fibre which makes it great to add to your daily/weekly diet.

Conclusion:

Soy is a very healthy source of protein, which is in many people’s opinion even more nutritious than chicken. To ensure that you do not end up eating in excess, make sure to eat in moderation throughout the week by exercising portion control for your meals.