Soybeans belong to legumes, widely used in the kitchen. It has numerous pro-health properties, but gentlemen shouldn't overdo the consumption of soy products. Why?
From all of 16 soybean species, the most popular soybean is cultivated soybeans (vegetable), with Latin name - Glycine max. Due to its pro-health properties, it's a valuable component of the daily diet. It's also used for the production of animal feed. In China, this plant has been grown for over 4,000 years. Currently, the largest exporters of soybeans are the United States, Brazil, Argentina and India.
What properties does soy have?
Soy is one of the richest sources of protein for vegetarians and vegans.
It contains dietary fiber, so it reduces the level of "bad" cholesterol.
It optimizes blood sugar.
It consists of phytoestrogens that alleviate the course of menopause.
Increases bone mineral density in women undergoing menopause.
It improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system.
It can be a substitute for dairy products for people with lactose intolerance or allergy to cow's milk proteins.
It reduces the risk of cancer.
Moreover, it's worth emphasizing that soy protein is easily digestible and contains all the amino acids necessary for the proper functioning of the body. It has the most protein of all legumes (up to 40% of its mass is just a protein). It is also a natural source of unsaturated fatty acids, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, iron and calcium.
Products of soy origin
Soybeans are used to make oils, cereal, soy flour, tofu, tempeh, lecithin and beverages. Soy is an ingredient in many foods, such as canned and smoked meats. Also, there are available protein supplements produced on the basis of soy, which have big interest between athletes using a meatless diet.
Is soy harmful?
Although soy contains valuable nutrients, if eaten in excess, it can negatively affect the functioning of the body. It is not recommended to consume raw soybeans because they contain substances that reduce the absorption of amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Controversy is also aroused by the common belief about the harmful effects of isoflavones contained in soy on men's hormonal balance. Studies have shown that moderate consumption of soy products does not cause hormonal disturbances. So, gentlemen do not have to exclude soy from their diet, so that they only keep moderation (we have written about other important factors determining the hormone activity here https://edi-nm.com/).
