The Health Benefits of Soybeans

The soybean (Glycine max) is a member of the legume family. Although the soybean is native to southeastern Asia, more than 50 percent of the worlds soybeans are produced in the United States. Soy foods are rich in health benefits and provide a high-protein diet without the fats found in meats. Soybeans are also loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber, isoflavones and essential fatty acids.

The quality of protein found in soybeans is considered to be equal with animal protein. A one cup serving of soybeans has more than 55 percent of the daily need for protein. This serving size has about 300 calories and 2.2 grams of saturated fat. Soy protein may also help lower blood cholesterol levels if eaten in large amounts. Animal protein sources usually raise blood cholesterol levels.

Besides being a source for healthy protein, soybeans also contain a large quantity of easily-absorbed iron. A one cup serving of soybeans has slightly more than 49 percent of the Daily Value for iron and 37 percent of the D.V. of magnesium. The essential omega-3 fatty acid in soybeans is more than 41 percent of the D.V.

Isoflavones are one of the active ingredients in soybeans that has been studied the most. These are weak forms of estrogen that mimic the body's natural estrogen. This is the reason that isoflavones are also known as phytoestrogens.

Genistein is one of the isoflovone compounds that cause the body to produce fewer and smaller fat cells, resulting in an ability to stay leaner. There are several other healthful ingredients in soy that are believed to have anti cancer benefits. These are phenolic acids, phytic acid, phytosterols, saponins and protein kinase inhibitors.

Soy can be included in the diet with raw soybeans, soy flour, roasted soybeans, soymilk, and soy burgers. Soy burgers and other imitation meat products use T.V.P (textured vegetable protein) made from soybeans. The healthful isoflavones are not found in soy sauce and soy oil.