Soy Extrat

In China, the soya bean has been cultivated and used in different ways for thousands of years. The increasing popularity of soya foods is mainly attributed to the large amount of health benefits which are associated with the use of soya beans. The role of soya in the prevention of chronic diseases continues to be a top priority for scientist around the world.

Soy is a complete protein, and soyfoods are rich in vitamins and minerals including folate, potassium and, in some cases, fiber.

In the past 15 years, soyfoods have attracted the attention of research scientists around the world for health properties beyond basic nutrition as well.

Recent research suggests that soy may also lower risk of prostate, colon and breast cancers as well as osteoporosis and other bone health problems, and alleviate hot flashes associated with menopause.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially recognized the cholesterol-lowering effects of soy protein in 1999 with a health claim stating that 25 grams of soy protein per day may reduce the risk of heart disease. Most soyfoods are also low in saturated and trans fats, one reason why the American Heart Association has recognized soyfoods' role in an overall heart-healthy diet.

Soy protein may provide positive results for people with high blood pressure. According to a recently published scientific study, researchers found that both the systolic and diastolic blood pressure were reduced in middle-aged and elderly women who ate at least 25 grams of soy protein daily. Since supermarkets today are filled with numerous soyfoods, eating 25 grams of soy protein is easy. Start the day with soy cereal for breakfast (eight grams soy protein). Add BBQ soy chips for lunch (seven grams soy protein). Grab a soy-protein-energy-bar for an afternoon snack (10 grams soy protein). Total soy protein equals 25 grams.

Soybeans are one of the best non-fish sources of essential omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Compared to other beans like pinto beans and navy beans, soybeans have a higher fat content, but this fat contains these heart-healthy omega-3.

While soy protein may or may not help reduce hot flashes for women going through menopause, soy protein has other proven benefits extending well into post-menopausal years. Research has found that consuming soy protein before, as well as after, menopause may help protect bones from becoming weak and brittle. And since post-menopausal women face an increased risk for osteoporosis, keeping bones healthy with soy protein-rich foods is critical.