The Benefits of Soy Protein

The endless searching and quest for the most beneficial dietary supplement, which will bring the body into a positive state of health and wellness, seems to be an important focus on many minds. The buzz surrounding the health benefits of soy and soy products has been around for sometime. So, when we hear the mention of the benefits from soy protein, many are inclined to reason that since it is has something to do with soy, there must be some truth to it. However, in order to actually see the benefits of soy protein, you need to have a better understanding of what it actually is.

What exactly is soy protein? Soy protein is formed from building blocks that are referred to as amino acids, which link together in a chain-like formation. The human body contains 20 amino acids; however, 9 of those 20 amino acids are considered "essential" amino acids. Essential amino acids are amino acids that the body does not make on its own and must consume as part of the diet. Soy protein is a plant based protein that is considered to be "complete" since it actually contains all 9 of the essential amino acids, making it a quality source and balance for the body's required needs. Many other protein food sources, such as meats, have a high saturated fat and cholesterol value, unlike soy protein which is.

Soy protein is a powerful source of good nutrients. Besides soy protein containing essential amino acids, it is also a wonderful source of omega 3 fatty acids, which research and studies have already concluded to be important nutrients for a healthy body. It also contains valuable vitamins and minerals like vitamin B, calcium, and boron, while also packing nutrients like iron, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus. Soy protein and products derived from it are a healthful source of dietary nutrients.

It is this healthful quality that makes soy protein and its products a beneficial dietary source. Between the nutrients held in the essential amino acids and the low cholesterol/low saturated fat properties, it is a good supplemental source for anyone who is conscious of their risks for heart disease, for women who are experiencing menopause, or for lessening the risk of certain kinds of cancers.

As early as 1999, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) yielded collected data from studies which concluded that the introduction of 25 grams of soy protein into the diet of a person with high cholesterol, would effectively result in the lowering of the LDL (bad cholesterol). It is also good to note that studies and beneficial findings, with respect to soy protein, have been conducted as far back as 1967. Lowering cholesterol improves the heart function, lessens the chances of blood coagulation problems (blood clot formation), and helps control hypertension, and these are all benefits that are found with a diet that includes soy protein.

Women who are pre or post menopausal are prone to the condition of Osteoporosis, which is a condition of the bones caused by diminished calcium. Studies also conclude that introducing soy protein or soy protein products that are rich in isoflavone instead of animal proteins, there was a lessening in the amount of calcium excreted by the body, and an improvement in the amount of calcium loss.

Cancer research back in 1991 began studying and collecting evidence to support the beneficial antioxidant properties of soy protein and how it relates to lessening the risks for certain cancers. Again, there has been some positive evidence, while nothing is conclusive as of yet.

The cards are all in favor of including more soy protein products into the human diet. It does not have to be a complete switch to a more vegetarian like diet, but there are supplements and tasty soy products that can be included into your diet. We live in a time where healthy living is a must, and the knowledge is there to support the reasoning. If the simple inclusion of soy protein can help lessen risk factors associated with common and serious medical conditions, it may be enough to help a person understand the importance of how their diet influences their health.