Soy is extraordinary!
There is no denying that soy has many health benefits. These health
benefits are mainly coming from the quality of the soy proteins
and form the isoflavones genistein and daidzein. Here they are:
Soy improves bone health
Soy products, such as soy milk, help reduce the osteoporosis risk.
Several studies have suggested that soy isoflavones may be a factor
in helping to prevent bone loss. The isoflavone genistein seems
to inhibit bone breakdown and may have similar effects than estrogens
in maintaining bone tissue. Soy can also indirectly improve bone
health. Diets which are high in animal protein cause more calcium
to be excreted in the urine. Replacing animal protein with soy protein
may help to prevent calcium loss from the bones.
Soy relieves menopausal symptoms
Epidemiological data show that Asian women suffer less from hot
flashes and night sweats compared to Western women. These symptoms
of menopause are caused by low estrogen levels. Estrogens play a
role in the body temperature control. Soy isoflavones can through
their estrogen-like effects control these menopausal symptoms.
Soy reduces risk for heart diseases
In countries were soy products are ingested regularly, the rate
of cardiovascular diseases is low. Research suggests that soy may
help prevent heart disease by reducing total cholesterol, low density
lipoprotein cholesterol and preventing plaque build up in the arteries,
which could lead to stroke or heart attack. These health benefits
are also mainly attributes to the soy isoflavones. The soy isoflavone
genistein also increases the flexibility of blood vessels.
Soy helps prevent certain cancers
Several studies have indicated that a regular intake of soy foods
may help prevent hormone related cancers such as breast cancer,
prostate cancer and colon cancer.
Soy is very nutritive
Soy products are very rich in protein. This protein is of very high
quality because it contains all essential amino acids. The amino
acids of soy combine very well with the amino acids of cereals.
The soy protein is therefore very important for vegans. Soy is a
good source of lecithin and vitamin E. These natural antioxidants
prevent oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Soy is rich in magnesium,
which plays an important function for the bones, heart and arteries.
Learn more about the health benefits of soy
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