WHY EAT SOY?
Nutrisoy values healthy living and well-being above all else. In fact, that's the reason we do what we do.
The health benefits of soy products are endless! We've listed a few of them below.
The following information has been reviewed by Dr Kate Marsh of Northside Nutrition and Dietetics.
Low in saturated fat and no cholesterol
Our 100% non-genetically modified organic soybeans are low in saturated fat and, like other plant foods, are naturally cholesterol-free. They contain mostly polyunsaturated fats and small amounts of omega-3 fats, which can both help to lower blood fats.
High protein content
Tofu and tempeh are a great source of good quality protein for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Unlike many other plant proteins, soy protein contains all the essential amino acids needed by our body, similar to animal protein. Several studies have found that replacing animal protein with plant protein may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Good source of many important nutrients
In addition to their valuable protein content, tofu and tempeh are good sources of key nutrients including calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, manganese and selenium.
Rich in isoflavones
Tofu and tempeh contain soy isoflavones, beneficial plant chemicals known as phytochemicals which may protect against chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Heart healthy
The protein in soy products like tofu and tempeh can improve blood fat levels (reducing the "bad" LDL cholesterol and increasing the "good" HDL cholesterol) and blood pressure, and may prevent cholesterol from oxidising and causing damage to the artery walls. It is for this reason that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a health claim in 1999 to say that 25g of soy protein per day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. Three to four serves of soy protein rich foods each day will provide approximately 25g of soy protein.
Beneficial for bones
Tofu and tempeh are good sources of calcium, important for bone health. There is also evidence that the phytoestrogens (plant estrogens) in soy products may reduce bone turnover, helping to protect against osteoporosis.