The protein obtained from soy is a high quality protein which can help you lose fat. Leaf through the soy protein benefits explained in this article. Scroll down to know how regular consumption of soy protein powder shake promotes weight loss….
Various types of protein powders are available in market. Whey protein powder and soy protein powder are popular weight loss products. Usually, people think of increasing the intake of animal foods when they want to raise the amount of protein in diet. Although soy protein is obtained from soybeans, it is considered as a high quality protein. It is low in calories and fat; and it is rich in phytochemicals that work as powerful antioxidants. Hydrolyzed soy protein, isolated soy protein are some of the popular types of soy protein powders available in market.
Nutrients in Soy Protein
Soy protein bar, soy protein powder, soy protein shake or soybeans can be consumed to reap the health benefits of soy protein. The phytochemicals like isoflavones, saponins and phytic acid carry several medicinal properties. This protein has a good ratio of omega-3:omega-6 fatty acids. Nutrients like L-tyrosine and lecithin offer several health benefits.
Soy protein is cholesterol free and it is low in saturated fat. It is considered as a good quality protein because it contains all 8 essential amino acids. It also provides sufficient fiber and B vitamins. It is loaded with various minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and zinc.
Health Benefits of Soy Protein
Cholesterol Levels
Soy protein helps lower the blood level of low density lipoproteins (LDL or bad cholesterol) and triglycerides. It is believed that it prevents the intestines from absorbing cholesterol. The isoflavones help increase the levels of high density lipoproteins (HDL or good cholesterol) which in turn helps lower LDL levels. Those who have been diagnosed with high cholesterol levels may benefit from the regular use of soy protein powder. The powder can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke significantly. Soy lecithin helps improve your cardiovascular health.
Blood Sugar Level
Studies show that soy protein helps maintain normal levels of insulin and sugar in blood. Fiber in this protein is helpful in preventing abnormal or sudden blood sugar fluctuations.
Weight Loss
Soy protein powder lowers accumulation of fat and cholesterol in the body. It keeps you full for a longer period of time and thus reduces the chances of over-eating. Consumption of this protein increases the rate of metabolism and thus promotes weight loss, in both diabetic and non-diabetic people. Soy lecithin improves fat metabolism.
Woman’s Health
Soy protein improves woman’s health in several ways. Studies show that despite low amount of calcium in a Japanese woman’s diet, Japanese women are less susceptible to osteoporosis than the Western women. This is attributed to high consumption of soy protein by the Japanese women.
Studies also show that consumption of this protein can prevent bone loss which is usually experienced by the perimenopausal women. Women are more likely to develop abdominal fat during or after menopause. The protein can prevent accumulation of fat around the abdomen. It is believed that phytoestrogens from the protein act as estrogen and protect the post-menopausal women from loss of bone density.
Cancer Prevention
The antioxidants from soy protein help fight free radicals. They cancel the effects of free radicals on the body and protect the body from various diseases, including cancer. It is believed that this protein reduces the risk of breast cancer in women and the risk of prostate cancer in men. These two are the most common cancers in women and men respectively. In Japan, where soy is consumed regularly, percentage of these cancers in women and men is very low. The isoflavones and the phytic acid which exhibit antioxidant properties play an important role in preventing various types of cancers.
Improves Brain Function
The amino acid L-tyrosine from soy protein enhances the production of neurotransmitters that play an important role in regulating emotions. Scarcity of neurotransmitters can lead to anxiety, sadness, stress and depression. Moreover the neurotransmitter dopamine promotes loss of body fat and it also helps curb your appetite. Soy lecithin helps improve cell communication.
Improves Overall Health
Soy protein offers healthy hair and skin. The nutrients from this protein can offer arthritis relief. The protein helps improve your liver and cell function. Improved brain function results in improved memory. Muscle strength and physical performance also improve after the consumption of this protein.
Vegetarians who do not consume animal food, need to include soy protein in diet. Experts say that consumption of about 25 grams of soy protein or more each day is essential to enjoy the benefits of this protein. But you should consult your health care provider for correct dosage. Although protein powder shakes offer instant nutrition to athletes and bodybuilders after intensive exercises, excessive consumption of soy protein can lead to weight gain.
Overuse of the protein can result in endometriosis, uterine fibroids and infertility in women. It can lead to obesity, affected thyroid gland function, fatigue, mood swings and decreased memory. Some men and women may suffer from side effects like diarrhea, cramps and bleeding.
You need to follow the instructions of your health care provider regarding the dosage, if you are opting for soy protein supplements. Incorporating soybeans in regular diet is the natural way of consuming high-quality protein and is therefore considered as safe and healthy.
