Health Benefits of Tofu
Tofu has a wide variety of benefits that can suit many individuals and their lifestyles. Tofu is packed with an abundance of different vitamins and nutrients that is needed for consumption on a daily basis. For that reason, tofu lies in a category of its own. Extra Firm Tofu is most famous for being packed with almost as much protein as it’s meat counterparts. Therefore, many conscious consumers use tofu as a substitute over meat. Substituting tofu as a protein source and pairing with other healthy ingredients like vegetables and superfoods will no doubt be one healthy meal.
Soy Protein
Protein is one of the most important nutrients we need. Protein directly helps to repair our cells and make new ones. We all need protein to fuel our bodies and give us energy. Protein in tofu has become a staple in vegan, vegetarian and omnivore lifestyles around the globe as it contains all nine essential amino acids. These amino acids play important factors because they are needed by the body but can only be consumed from food. Amino acids are often thought of as the building blocks of proteins. They boost body performance and improve mood which is very important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Animal protein foods are high in saturated fat and cholesterol which are tied to increasing your risk of developing a cardiovascular disease. Substituting more plant protein in diets can help someone from consuming those unneeded substances.
Phytochemicals and Active Compounds
Soy protein, found in tofu, contains a variety of phytochemicals and active compounds that can benefit consumers. Isoflavones are a group of phytoestrogens that include genistein, daidzein, glycitein and may protect against age-related diseases including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, hormone-dependent cancer and loss of cognitive function. Tofu also contains Saponins. Studies suggest these compounds may lower blood cholesterol, protect against cancer and affect blood glucose levels. Tofu contains the phytochemical called phenolic acids which researchers suggest has the potential to stop cancer cells from spreading. Phytic Acid is found in soya and can act as an antioxidant. Enzyme-regulating proteins include protease inhibitors and protein kinase inhibitors which help to regulate the biological activity of proteins.
Nutrient Density
Tofu also delivers a better diverse nutrient density than other foods. Soy Protein carries important vitamins and minerals like B-vitamins, iron, calcium, zinc and a variety of antioxidants to give vegan, vegetarians and flexitarians the nutrition they need. Soy protein contains more nutrients than animal protein like fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and polyunsaturated fat which are all linked to lowering cholesterol and cardiovascular diseases. There is evidence that tofu helps to lower levels of bad cholesterol which is linked as the cause of diabetes.
Tofu is packed with so many benefits that it can support a wide variety of lifestyles and can be consumed for many different reasons. Tofu can help support individuals of all ages and can be consumed in many creative ways. Tofu can be a meat alternative and also provide many nutrients that meat doesn’t provide. It also provides many nutrients that are found mainly in grains and vegetables.
Nature’s Soy provides the best quality, non-gmo tofu products for consumers nationwide. To find our products near you, check out our store locator. To stay up to date with this blog and for special promotion alerts, subscribe to our newsletter below.
Sources Sited:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/essential-amino-acids
https://www.keystonenatural.com/education-1/2020/9/16/soy-protein
https://www.superior-natural.com/blog/2021/2/22/what-is-tofu-and-is-it-good-for-you