Soy Protein Concentrate And Natural Soy Protein Supplements

Soy Protein has been available since the mid 30's and has since then grown in popularity because of its useful functional properties. Soybeans are known to contain useful fibers and produce a variety of substances that are known as Phytochemicals. These phytochemicals are complex compounds that are produced by plants, which prevent diseases.

There are many different groups of phytochemicals, one such being phytoestrogens. These complex chemicals, together with the fibers found in soy are useful in reducing 'bad cholesterol' or LDL, which in turn decreases the risk of developing heart diseases.

What Makes Soy Protein So Special?

So, what exactly makes soy protein so special? It is popularly known that soybeans are the only type of plant food that contains some of the most essential amino acids in their right quantities. This would mean that we no longer have to eat other protein sources like meat. If we eat an adequate amount of soy food or products, like rice and beans or soymilk, then our chances of being healthier in the future remain strong.

Animal protein on one hand contains foods like milk, meat, eggs, poultry, and cheese. But, these are high in cholesterol and saturated fat. On the other hand, proteins that are extracted from vegetable resources like soy do not contain any form of cholesterol or saturated fat. So, by substituting soy in your diet with these possibly harmful animal proteins, you could probably gain from the useful properties that soy has to offer. What's more, the chances of lowering your fat and calorie intake are reduced considerably.  

As for the digestibility of certain types of soy foods: tofu - 92.7%, soy protein isolate – 93-97%, steamed soybeans – 65.3% and soy milk – 92.6%. Some studies that have been performed on rats have shown that biological importance and value of soy protein isolates can only be compared to animal proteins like casein if it is enriched with some of the sulfur containing amino acids like methionine. Soybeans are also rich in estrogenic compounds like daidzein and genistein. However, further studies have given rise to conflicts as to whether or not soy protein can increase the levels of estrogen in men. Other studies have shown that 56 grams of soy protein powder taken everyday is beneficial to the overall health since it is rich in fiber, polyunsaturated fats, vitamins, low content saturated fats and minerals. Using soy foods and proteins to replace foods containing animal proteins are beneficial for cardiovascular health.  

Now, if you are wondering how much soy you should take each day, then this will probably be useful to you. According to the Food and Drug Administration, you are advised to consume at least 25-50 grams of soy on a daily basis. If you plan on lowering your cholesterol intake, then you are recommended to enjoy all the benefits that soy protein has to offer.