Soy protein is derived from protein-isolation of soybean. It is extracted by the process of dehulling and defatting soybean and refined into three types of commercially available soy protein forms, namely soy concentrates, soy isolates and soy flour. Soy protein is especially preferred by vegetarians and vegans who are looking for substitutes for animal-derived protein. It is claimed to be quite beneficial for women and children and more specifically, perinatal health.
Soy protein is especially beneficial since it contains no cholesterol and has low saturated fat. It is a great source of calcium, zinc, iron, fiber and B vitamins while also being the only vegetable that consists of all eight essential amino acids.
Health Benefits of Soy
Pregnancy Health
Fortified soy milk is a great source of vitamin D for pregnant women, especially for those are not able to get enough sunshine for various reasons. Being cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat, soy milk also provides nutrients including essential amino acids to vegan and vegetarian moms who would want to substitute cow milk with soy milk.
Cardiac Health
Soy protein has also been found to be extremely beneficial for cardiac health due to its cholesterol-free attribute.
Obesity and Diabetes
Studies have shown that soy protein helps in controlling hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hyperinsulinemia both in diabetic and non-diabetic individuals who are concerned with obesity and blood sugar levels.
Cancer
Soy protein has also been found in studies to be cancer-preventative. Genistein is a phytochemical found in soy that prevents tumors from forming vessels in blood which prove nourishing for tumor growth.
Menopause
Compounds called phytoestrogens that are found in soy are believed to provide bone health benefits to postmenopausal women.
Conclusion
Soy protein provides tremendous health benefits, especially to women of all ages. Soy has gained recent popularity in the American diet by being substituted for meat products. As more research is conducted, it is not doubtful that additional health benefits of soy will be discovered.