Soy is booming, although a few years ago no one would have bet on it. Despite the many benefits associated with this food, soy consumption is much higher in the Eastern population than in the European population. In our country, most of its production takes place in Andalusia, although compared to crops in other countries such as China or Malaysia, it is laughable. So what is soy and what are its properties and benefits?
What is Soybean?
Soy is not a cereal but a legume or legume, whose origins date back to the 3rd century BC in China. Their arrival in Europe was not until the 17th century, thanks to traders handling merchandise from Asia.
It has a similar shape to the seed of the lentil and grows inside a pod. The most outstanding products that are made from their grains are soy milk, soy milk (food rich in vitamin K), or soy flour to make sauces. It is also used in the production of certain sausages and bakery.
Soybean Properties and Benefits
Soy has isoflavones or phytoestrogens that act as estrogen and antiestrogens, combating cancer and thus improving the immune system and the production of antioxidants.
It is a food rich in proteins and essential amino acids, something that will keep your vitality high. In addition, its fats are of plant origin, healthier than animal fat, and its protein value is similar to that of eggs, fish, or meat.
It is very useful as a cardio-healthy food, thanks to its unsaturated fats, and to treat various conditions. In addition, it is a source of minerals (iron, calcium, copper, magnesium, and phosphorus) and vitamins (A, B, E, and F). Similarly, it reduces triglycerides and increases good cholesterol (HDL) while reducing bad (LDL).
As we will see below, there are somewhat controversial studies on the benefits of soy. However, it has been proven that this food contributes to an improvement in the disorders caused by menopause, thanks to its content of isoflavones.
Some epidemiological data in the United States have also revealed that their intake is associated with reduced colon, breast, and prostate tumors. Either way, the data must be taken with caution, as it is still being studied.
Other research points to more benefits of various pathologies. First, isoflavonoids and phytoestrogens are involved in the prevention of osteoporosis and its plant fiber favors intestine transit l.
Possible negative aspects of soy according to some studies
Precisely, soy is the soy is the component that is generating the greatest controversy among the scientific community. Moderate intake is recommended for hormonal mismatch. However, estrogens, both in the case of men and in the case of women, can have an opposite effect on our body, hence we must control their consumption.
The Ecologist magazine published some time ago information regarding the covert way of making products made from soy. Many of them contain additives and even seeds are treated in laboratories, resulting in a GM product with high pesticide levels. All this can pose a problem for our health over time.
Similarly, soybeans have been found to interfere with the absorption of medicines used by people with thyroid problems. Consuming it moderately carries no risk, although it is advisable to wait a few hours to consume it after taking the medicine.