Soy Protein Powder Can Benefit Diabetic Vegetarians

According to TypeFree.com, healthy individuals need to consume about 100 grams of protein per day, if they are following an average 2000-calorie diet. Protein is essential for all people, but can be especially important for diabetics, who require protein to produce insulin, repair muscles, and have healthy blood cells. However, many diabetics are also vegetarians. (source: http://shop.imtypefree.com/Diabetic-Nutrition-Products-s/79.htm)

So how can vegetarian diabetics be sure to get the recommended amount of protein every day? A good solution may be to incorporate soy protein powder into the daily diet.

The Journal of Perinatal Education also published information about soy protein and the benefits of using soy as a meat substitute. According to an article published by the journal, soy protein can help to control hyperglycemia and reduce body weight, hyperlipidemia, and hyperinsulinemia. Soy protein, according to the article, "may be useful to both nondiabetic and diabetic persons in the control of obesity and blood sugar." (source: http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1595159

Where to get soy protein

Soy protein can be found in a variety of different sources, including soymilk, soy flour (soy powder), and tofu. In order to receive the helpful benefits of soy protein, individuals should consume about 25 grams of soy per day. This amount is about 1.25 cups of tofu, 1-2 cups of soymilk, or about an ounce of soy powder. (source: http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1595159)

Versatility of soy powder

Soy powder can be added to a variety of different foods in lieu of traditional wheat flour. It can also be mixed into drinks, including milk, soups, sprinkled on sandwiches or salads, or cooked right into just about any other type of meal to add a rich flavor and all of the necessary amounts of soy that individuals need to have the benefits of soy protein. Here are some great vegetarian recipes that could be made with soy powder as well. These recipes are great for diabetics.

The importance of a healthy diet for diabetics

Diabetics need to be sure that they consume a healthy diet that is low in fat and sugar. This means consuming about 100 grams of protein, 275 grams of carbohydrates, and about 56 grams of fat each day. By eating as many vitamins and minerals as possible, diabetics can help to keep their bones, muscles, tendons, and blood cells nutrient-rich. Also, eating healthy can help diabetics to lose weight, which can also reduce their chances of developing complications associated with diabetes, including other long-term medical conditions.

Sources:

http://shop.imtypefree.com/Diabetic-Nutrition-Products-s/79.htm

http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1595159

http://www.imtypefree.com/taxonomy/term/507