Soybeans are high in several vitamins and minerals, just like other legumes. But compared to the majority of other legumes, the macronutrient profile of soybeans is significantly different. This makes them more nutritious and highly beneficial to human and animal health.
Supplementing your diet with soy products can help supply your body with vital nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, and fats. Soy products can help improve the functionality of major organs, such as the heart, brain, skin, and immune system. Further, they can help you control body weight, alleviate sleep disorders and depression, and reduce menopause symptoms, among other benefits. You can reap numerous other benefits from regular soy food consumption.
Protein is one of the primary nutrients in soybean, making them the best, especially for vegetarians. The following article will examine the nutritional composition of soybeans and why you should consider switching your diet.
Protein
Soybeans are rich in protein compared to any other legume. They have a protein content ranging between 36-56%. In addition, soy protein is said to be of higher quality than other legume plants. For these reasons, soy protein is often ranked as the best sustainable protein source, equalling major protein sources such as milk and meat. This gives a better explanation of why vegetarians prefer sustainable soy as an alternative to meat. Glycinin and conglycinin are the major types of proteins in soybean, making up to 80 % of the total protein content.
Proteins play a significant role in your body, including;
- Growth and maintenance of body tissues
- Increases biochemical reactions
- Maintains body pH
- Improves the immune system
- Provide energy
- Transport and store essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals
Consumption of soy food has also been associated with decreased cholesterol levels, ensuring healthy weight and preventing cardiovascular diseases. Proteins are also essential in facilitating metabolic reactions and coordinating body functions.
Fat
Soybeans are oil seeds that can be used in making soybean oil. They have a high content of fats, mainly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Besides, they also have a small amount of saturated fat. Linoleic acid is soybean’s primary fat type, accounting for 50% of the total fat content.
The unsaturated fats are healthy and can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce unhealthy body weight. High LDL cholesterol can lead to an increased risk of conditions such as atherosclerosis and coronary heart attack. Such conditions are dangerous and can lead to heart attack and stroke.
To ensure a healthy cardiovascular system, you must reduce your intake of unhealthy fat, such as those with high cholesterol levels. Soybean is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proven vital in enhancing the heart. Apart from taking care of your cardiovascular system, omega-3 fatty acids can help improve your vision and brain. Moreover, they can help in boosting the anti-inflammatory effect in your body.
Fats are essential in providing the body with enough energy and supporting the cells’ function. They also play a vital role in protecting significant organs and keeping the body warm. Further, they help the body absorb crucial nutrients and help in the production of essential hormones. Consumption of soy-rich healthy fats can help improve your overall health and boost the functioning of major organs.
Vitamins and Minerals
Soybeans are rich in several vitamins and minerals, essential in keeping the body healthy and boosting the functionality of major organs. Vitamins play various roles in the body, such as fighting infections, keeping the nerves healthy, providing the body with adequate energy, and helping in blood clotting.
Similarly, minerals have a crucial role in the body, especially in boosting the body’s functioning. Trying different diets can help you get enough minerals that your body requires. Some minerals, such as iodine and fluoride, are only needed in smaller quantities, while others are required in larger quantities.
Some of the vitamins found in soybean include
- Vitamin K is responsible for blood clotting and enhancing bone health
- Vitamin B9 or folate, which plays a vital role during pregnancy
- Thiamine, or vitamin B1, helps boost bodily functions.
Fiber
Fiber plays a crucial role in the body. For instance, they help in normalizing bowel movements, enhancing healthy bowel health, lowering cholesterol levels, regulating blood sugar levels, and assisting in maintaining a healthy weight.
Soybeans are rich in fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Insoluble fibers are majorly APhA-galactoside. The soluble fibers are very healthy and vital in the body.
Carbs
Carbohydrates are the primary source of body energy. Sugar and starch from any food are broken down to provide the required energy in the body. In addition, they are vital in protecting the body against diseases and controlling weight. Though carbohydrates are essential, you must take healthy carbohydrates only. Soybean has some significant amounts of carbs that are healthy. The carbs in soybeans are low in GI, making them suitable for consumption, especially for people with diabetes.
Wrapping Up
A soy diet proves to be healthy, mainly due to its protein content. Switching your diet or including soy products can help you reap numerous health benefits. Additionally, you tend to boost your major body organs, such as the heart, bones, immune system, and brain, to function effectively.
