Soy Protein Powder
What is Soy Protein Powder?
All soy products begin with the soybean. The Soybean is part of the legume plant family. The mature soybean packs a whopping 42% protein, making it a wonderful alternative for non-meat eaters, or those seeking to reduce animal protein in their diet. Soy is a complete protein, which means it contains all of the essential amino acids needed by the body.
The benefits of Soy Protein Powder
Long a mainstay of the Asian diet, soy was first introduced in the United States in 1909. In 1999, the FDA approved the use of health claims relating to soy and heart health for food marketers. Specifically the following claim can be made: “Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol that includes 25 grams of soy protein a day may reduce the risk of heart disease. One serving of (name of food) provides __ grams of soy protein .” In order to qualify for the claim, the food must be low in fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium and have at least 6.25 grams of soy protein per serving.
Soy protein powder is one form of soy protein. Soy has continued to emerge as a supplement powerhouse. In July 2005, the Annals of Internal Medicine found that soy protein helped lower blood pressure in individuals with high-normal blood pressure levels.
In April 2005, The International Journal of Cancer Prevention published findings from a study which suggested that the regular consumption of food and beverages containing soy protein may reduce the risk of breast cancer in women by as much as 22 percent, and in adolescents may lead to lower risk of developing breast cancer later in life.
Although there is not yet scientific evidence, many Asian women do not suffer from the menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes that often plague women in the West. It has been theorized that soy has a role in preventing or alleviating these symptoms.
Soy Protein Powder ... not just your mother’s milk-shake
The benefits of soy are often aimed at women but men may also benefit by adding soy protein powder to their diets. Soy may play a role in maintaining a healthy digestive tract, which includes the colon. While there are no scientific studies, one study found that soy intake reduced the propagation of cancer in colon cancer survivors.
Asian men have been found to have a low rate of cancer, including prostate cancer which may be partially attributable to their consumption of soy.
A Norway study suggested that there may be a link between high consumption of soy milk and a reduced risk of prostate cancer.
Soy may not be a miracle cure all, but there is enough evidence that supports it as a worthwhile addition to any diet. Some people are allergic to foods such as soy, wheat, nuts, milk, etc. If you think you might be prone to allergies, don't suddenly begin consuming great amounts of soy. Try a small amount each day and see how your body likes it.
Alternatives to soy protein powder inclucde whey protein power and vegetable protein powder (made from rice protein).
The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. All information here is intended for general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting any new supplement, diet or fitness regimen.
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