When soybeans first came on the scene they were often seen as the new miracle food. Easy to grow, able to be grown in nearly any climate, a good replacement for tobacco crops in the Southern states, and able to be used to make a variety of substitute foods like tofu and soymilk that were theoretically better for you. In recent years science has caught up to the fad, and new knowledge says that soybeans are not necessarily the perfect food we thought.

One of the reasons the benefits of the soybeans in a healthy diet are currently under attack is the source of the beans themselves. As long as you stick to naturally occurring soybeans and soybean ingredients, you will reap all of the benefits of eating soy and drinking soymilk. If you use GM (Genetically Modified) soybeans and soybean oils, you will be damaging your thyroid and other natural body function. As with anything, the trick is in reading your labels and paying attention to organic soy instead of genetically modified soy.

Now that you know what kind of soy to look for (natural or organic), how can soy help your health? Scientists have sown that soy isoflavens help your circulation and help lower your LDL cholesterol levels. They help lower LDL cholesterol by lowering the production of triglycerides in your system. This helps lower your cholesterol, and improves your cardiovascular health overall.

Another benefit soybeans and soy products have is a high protein count. Soybeans are a fantastic way for vegetarians and other people who don’t get enough meat in their diet to get the protein they need to survive and thrive. Not only are soybeans high in proteins, they are low in saturated fat and high in fiber. All natural soybeans are one of the most beneficial foods to include in a healthy diet.

One thing to remember: if you have a thyroid condition, you should not eat soybeans or products containing soy or soybean oil. The same isoflavens that help our circulation can act as triggers that make a thyroid condition worse. Scientists aren’t certain exactly what happens between the soy and the thyroid yet, but they are testing the connection now. If you need to add protein to your diet and want to use soybeans as its source, heck with your doctor first if your thyroid is unstable.

Another benefit to your health can come from soy milk. If you are lactose intolerant and at risk for high cholesterol, soy milk can offer you the same benefits of a glass of regular milk each day, as well as the added benefit of soy proteins and isoflavens. It also works as a great substitute for whole milk in recipes, and a substitute for creamer in coffee. Just one glass a day can help you live longer and healthier!

Ldl Cholesterol | Medical Disclaimer |