You have probably decided to shift to soy-based food for better health and to reduce the environmental impact. And now, wanted to explore the benefits of soy before starting to consume it.
You have made the right decision, as research in recent times has revealed that soy offers many health benefits and contributes to reducing negative impacts on the planet. Moreover, it has been consumed as a dietary staple in many regions for thousands of years.
In recent times, it has gained popularity among vegetarians and vegans as a high-quality source of protein and has become an excellent substitute for animal protein and various dairy products.
Furthermore, soy foods offer a range of health benefits and are a nutritious addition to a healthy diet.
Want to learn more about soy health benefits and its uses? Keep hooked on this article.
This post will further explore various use cases and health benefits of consuming various soy products.
Seven Common Uses of Soy Products
Over the years, there has been a tremendous increase in the use of soy in various forms and a variety of foods. With the increasing demand, organizations have continuously come up with new and innovative soy products from time to time. Such soy products are used in many ways.
Some of the common uses of soy Include;
- Animal Feed
You will be surprised to know that livestock and animal feed comprise approximately 97% of the soybean meal in the United States. In fact, it is among the most popular and nutritious ingredients in animal feed.
Poultry is the primary livestock sector where soybeans are highly consumed, followed by dairy, hogs, aquaculture, and beef.
- Human Foods Such As Milk
Apart from the 97% soybean used for animal feed, 3% is used in human food products such as soy milk and protein alternatives.
Besides soy milk, it is also used in making other products such as tofu, miso, edamame, tempeh, and soy sauce. Soy nuts or roasted soy is also a popular soy snack rich in fiber and protein, making it the best alternative to oily and high-fat snacks like crackers and chips.
- Cooking Oil
Soybean oil is a popular edible oil in many homes these days. In fact, people have used this as cooking oil extensively for quite some time.
Soybean oil is highly refined, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and has several health benefits.
- Meat Alternatives
Because of being a complete protein-rich source while containing essential amino acids, soy products are among the best meat alternatives. It is particularly popular among vegans and vegetarians.
You can find soy as an animal protein alternative in various soy foods such as tofu, tempeh, soy chunks, and many more.
- Baking
Recently, soy flour usage has increased with the popularity of soy products. You can now replace wheat flour with soy flour for baking or making gluten-free food items.
- Industrial Uses
Besides being used as animal feed and in human food, soy is also used for various industrial purposes like making plastics, cleaners, paints, candles, etc.
- Biodiesel
As soy comes from plants instead of ground, it is an excellent source of biodiesel. One bushel of soy can produce 1.5 gallons of biodiesel.
Furthermore, it is a natural energy source, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and boosts energy efficiency while providing almost 15% price support for soybeans.
Now as know the various uses of soy, let’s explore the range of health benefits of consuming soy.
7 Health Benefits of Consuming Soy Foods
- Lower Blood Sugar Level
According to numerous research, soy isoflavones can help in lowering insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a condition where cells no longer respond to insulin normally. Moreover, other research reveals that soy protein may also help lower blood sugar and insulin in people with type 2 diabetes.
- Protect Heart Health
Cardiovascular illnesses affect the heart and blood arteries, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, and coronary heart disease.
Soy isoflavone and phytosterols reduce cholesterol levels and hence may significantly contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular illnesses.
- Help In Weight Management
Since soybeans are a strong source of protein, including them regularly in your diet may encourage you to eat less overall, which might reduce your risk of becoming obese.
According to studies, soy proteins may also help you lose weight and lower body fat mass.
- Improve Skin Health
Soybean isoflavones may contribute to better skin health in general.
Consuming soybeans may boost collagen production, a protein that promotes skin suppleness and hydration retention while minimizing pigmentation and wrinkles.
However, you should consult your doctor if you notice any difference in your skin.
- Can Enhance Blood Circulation
The blood and oxygen supply to the organs is improved when enough red blood cells are in the body, enabling them to perform more effectively. This increases energy levels and metabolic activity, protecting you against anemia.
Consuming soy can help improve your blood circulation as it is abundant with Iron and copper, two elements essential for the growth of red blood cells.
- Help In Better Sleep
Soy protein might assist those who struggle with sleeping problems like insomnia to have a decent night’s sleep.
But consume soy in moderation as it is rich in magnesium, a mineral that can disrupt sleep and cause restlessness before bed if consumed in high quantity.
- Reduce The Risk Of Cancer
In many research diets rich in soy have been linked to reduced risk of certain cancer. It is all due to the phytochemical genistein present in soy.
The phytochemical genistein may reduce the risk of numerous cancers, such as breast cancer, as it prevents tumors from forming in blood vessels that may otherwise feed their growth.
Final Verdict
Today soy is consumed in many forms in various foods throughout the globe. It is possibly due to its range of health benefits and lower environmental impact. So, if you also want to better your health and reduce your carbon footprint start consuming soy today.