The Advantages of Soy In Your Diet

Soybeans are one of the most nutritious foods known.  There has been a lot of research done recently about the benefits of soy in the diet.  Soy is now known to have many advantages to the diet.  Soy is available in many forms so it can be easily added in the processing phases of many commercial products. Soy provides protein as well as many vitamins and minerals including B Complex, calcium, magnesium and zinc.

Soy is a plant that originated in the Far East and is now grown throughout the world.  The plant produces black or gray pods that contain the soybeans.  It is available in many forms including tofu, soybean oil, soy flour, sprouts, milk, yogurt and cheese. Soy flour can be easily substituted for wheat flour and is more nutritious. 

Soy protein is a powder that is obtained from the processed soy plant.  This powder can be used in making shakes and desserts as well as sprinkled on any food items.  While soy powder is nutritious it does not contain the high amounts of fiber that soybeans do.  One benefit of soy powder is that the body easily absorbs it.

Lower Cholesterol Levels
A regular diet that includes soy can actually help to lower cholesterol.

Prevent Cancer
Soy has been shown to be a possible cancer preventative, especially for colon, rectal and breast cancers. 

Fight Heart Disease
Studies have shown that soy can help fight heart disease. 

Helps Maintain Good Intestinal Health
Soybeans are naturally high in fiber so they are an excellent means of fiber in the diet.  A diet that is high in fiber is known to help keep your intestinal tract is good condition and can help to prevent colon and rectal cancer.

Digestion Aid
Soy has been found to be a natural digestion aid.  Combining soy with other foods in your diet will help your stomach and digestive tract remain healthy. 

Prevent Bone Loss
A diet high in soy can help prevent and slow bone loss.  It can help slow the development of osteoporosis. 

Promote Healthy Menopause
Soy helps aid with the symptoms of menopause making them less noticeable for some women. Specifically, hot flashes may be reduced.

Promote Healthy Prostate
Prostate cancer affects many men and research has shown that soy can help aid in the prevention of prostate cancer.

Sustain Healthy Skin
Soybeans contain anti-oxidants such as Vitamin B complex and Vitamin E, both of which help prevent wrinkles and improve skin tone and texture.

Improve memory
Soy protein contains high levels of Tyrosine, a substance that helps maintain alertness and mental energy. 

Aid in weight loss
Soy helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels.  This will help you feel more satisfied and less hungry in-between meals.