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Soy comes from a legume called soybean. Soy products are famous around the world due to their nutritional value.

Soy food is nutrient-rich, and diets that include it have health advantages, such as lower blood sugar levels, enhanced heart health, fewer menopause symptoms, and possibly even a reduced risk of some cancers. 

In addition, soy is an excellent source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein. Additionally, soy is inherently low in saturated fat or free of cholesterol.

However, only a few people know this power food's benefits. Let’s learn all about this superfood below.

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How is Soy a powerhouse performer?

Soy is the primary ingredient in numerous products like flour, cookies, chips, meat substitutes, smoothies, cereals, etc. According to experts, one can safely have soy products many times a week.

U.S. soy includes all essential amino acids required by the body, fiber, essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy plant components. 

Soybeans are a rich source of polyphenols, an antioxidant that will help shield your body from illnesses like cardiovascular disease and cell deterioration, in addition to their vitamin and mineral richness. 

One of the primary causes of the many alleged health advantages of soy-based meals is thought to be isoflavones. Isoflavones, a polyphenol known as phytoestrogens because of their capacity to bind to and stimulate estrogen in your blood, are particularly abundant in soy. 

Based on the type, boiled soybeans have 90-134 mg of isoflavones every 3.5 ounces (100 grams). Because of their structural resemblance to estrogen, soy isoflavones are frequently thought to imitate the hormone. 

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In moderation, soy consumption should be safe. But as some people may be allergic to it, starting slowly and monitoring how your body reacts to it is crucial. Eating soy can sometimes cause some people to experience digestive issues (such as stomach aches, loose stools, or diarrhea).

Now that you know what soy is let’s discuss why you should switch to a soy-based diet soon.

1. It's Packed With Protein

As per the National Institutes of Health, soy protein can aid in lowering concentrations of LDL cholesterol.

In contrast to most plant-based proteins, soy contains all nine amino acids. Your body combines these amino acids to create new proteins, such as antibodies necessary for immune response function, structural proteins that keep your cells together, or enzymes that support cell energy production. Consider using soy milk as a source of protein in your meals.

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2. It Doesn't Enhance Breast Cancer Risk

It was long believed soy products could enhance your risk of developing breast cancer since they contain isoflavones, a phytoestrogen. The American Cancer Society claims that this idea has subsequently been disproved.

According to a 2020 study, soy is not associated with a higher breast cancer risk and may even help prevent it.

3. Soy is Rich in Iron and Calcium

Enriched soy can help you obtain extra calcium and iron. Your body needs calcium from food to maintain good, robust bone tissue.

Without it, the body gets calcium from your bones, which may cause your bone density to deteriorate over time.

A glass of plain, unsweetened soy milk has 301 milligrams of calcium. As per the NIH, this provides approximately 30% of the daily amount advised.

The iron in soy milk helps your red blood cells function better, ensuring that all body tissues receive the oxygen they require. With 1.1 milligrams of iron per serving, soy helps you meet your daily requirements for this nutrient.

4. It features vitamin B12 and Riboflavin

Additionally, soy aids in increasing your intake of B-complex vitamins and is an excellent source of vitamin B12. Consuming enough vitamin B12 in your food supports red blood cell production, keeps your nerves strong, and helps cell DNA synthesis.

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5. Excellent alternative for vegans

Vegans and anybody who decides to forgo dairy goods for health or other causes should find soy milk a good substitute.

Protein is a crucial benefit of soy for vegans and anyone consuming fewer animal proteins. Soy is low in calories and free of cholesterol. Essential minerals like calcium and vitamin A are also present in products containing soy.

You can replace regular milk with soy milk. Although there may be some flavor variances, most people can get used to the flavor of soy milk.

6. GMO Crop Regulated by FDA

The top GMO crop is soybeans. That indicates that parts of the genes in the seed were altered to increase nutrients or defend the plant against viruses or pesticides. Some people oppose GMO foods because they believe they may not be safe. However, the FDA, which oversees all "genetically modified" foods, claims its safety is equal to plants grown conventionally.

Conclusion

Soy is a food made from soybeans that are nutritious and high in protein. It is also cholesterol-free and low in calories. There are many benefits of switching to a soy-based diet. If you haven’t done it already, it’s time to read up about it and make lifestyle changes for better health.