Nutritional Facts & Health Benefits of Soybeans (Glycine Max)

Glycine Max is an annual legume from the family Fabaceae, a native of southeastern Asia. Also known by two different names, soybean or soya bean, this plant is widely cultivated for its protein-rich edible bean. Beans, the product of these easily cultivated plants, contain a myriad of nutrients.

Today, soybeans have become one of the most widely consumed foods in the world and play an important role in improving human health. Soy milk extracted from soybeans has traditionally been used for their numerous uses.

Tofu (known as soybean curd) and tofu skin (bean curd sheet) are made from unfermented soy milk. Soybeans have become more popular in recent decades than ever before because of their rare benefits such as textured vegetable protein (TVP) and soy milk.

In fact, although these plants are native to East Asia, they are now widely cultivated in the United States and South America. Tempeh, soy sauce, nattō, fermented bean paste are some of the sourest foods made from soybeans.

Fat-free soybean foods are commonly used as animal feed, in which the amount of protein is only significant, and sometimes they are a poor source of protein.

The textured vegetable protein contained in soybean products is utilized as a suitable substitute for protein-rich milk and meat. It affords essential protein, especially for vegetarians.

Oil is extracted from them as another way of processing the soybean crop, and this protein-rich soybean oil contributes significantly to the development of food and industrial applications.

The residues of the soybeans are a healthy food that can provide nutrition to farm animals and livestock. The botanical genus of the Fabaceae family, Glycine Willd, is divided into two subspecies, Soja and Glycine.

Soja subtype contains Glycine max, cultivated soybean, Glycine soja Sieb. & Zucc, wild soybean. Glycine Soja is said to be the grandparent of the Glycine Max plant, which grows in the forest area in Russia, Japan, Korea, and China.

Both subspecies are annual plants, in addition to the genus Glycine, found in Papua New Guinea and Australia contains 25 wild perennial species including G. tomentella Hayata, & Glycine Canescens F.J. Herm. Modern soybeans with cultural differences are cultivated in large quantities for its various health benefits.

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Facts of Soybean

Soy products that have become famous through our offspring have created an entire new mass-market now for its nutritional values, health benefits, and medicinal properties.

Beyond their medicinal benefits, they are an ideal alternative to protein-rich meats for vegetarians. Soybeans contain significant amounts of essential nutrients such as vitamin B, dietary minerals, and phytic acid.

Since soybeans are one of the most important sources of protein, they contain phytoestrogens, omega-3 fatty acids, rich antioxidants, soluble fiber, and other essential nutrients needed to activate the body.

Most notably, these are very popular for textured vegetable protein, soy milk, soybean tofu, tofu skin, soy sauce, and other products. Osteoporosis conditions can be avoided by consuming soy foods that have great health benefits.

Soybeans help in regulating the circulation and controlling excessive bleeding in women with irregular menstrual cycles. Furthermore, they protect the heart from coronary heart disease and reduce hot flushes.

Experts stated that by including certain amounts of soybean in your daily diet, you can maintain good health and overall well-being.

Potential Health Benefits of Soybeans

Soybeans are an excellent source of protein. Found in various forms like edamame, milk, curd, curd sheet, tamari, tempeh, oil, this vegetable plays an important role in the overall health of the body as it provides numerous nutritional benefits.

The soybean oil can be used in the manufacture of spark plugs, eco-friendly fuels, engine lubricants, and crayons.

Soybeans provide various benefits such as promote healthy weight gain, eliminate bad menstrual symptoms, prevent cancer, improve metabolic functions, enhance heart health, limit birth defects, develop bone health, increase blood flow, control diabetes, regulate digestive disorders and promote cell growth. In this section, we will look at the benefits of soybeans comprehensively.

1. Contains High Nutritional Value

Soybeans are high in a textured vegetable protein called TVP, and it contains 9 essential amino acids. For vegetarians, soy foods are an important source of protein thus they are a perfect alternative for meat.

A study conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has calculated the nutrients contained in green soybeans cooked without salt. According to it, the nutrients in 100 grams of boiled soybeans are,

• Calories – 141 Kcal
• Protein – 12.35 g
• Carbohydrate – 11.05 g
• Fat – 6.4 g
• Fiber – 4.2 g

One of the interesting things about soybeans is that although they are high in folate, protein, and vitamin C, they are low in saturated fat, it does not allow cholesterol to build up in the blood.

Apart from these, this vegetable also contains healthy minerals like iron, calcium, phosphorus, thiamine, and potassium which are beneficial.

But the value of the nutrient content contained in the preparation of other soy products made using soybeans varies slightly depending on the processing and composition of the manufacturers.

2. Develops Metabolic Activity

Metabolic activity is defined by the extraction of 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) in positron emission tomography (PET). The body reaches full growth without any disorders while the metabolic functions are functioning properly.

Besides, proteins in the body help a lot in effectively managing proper metabolic functions. Since soybeans are the most important source of protein, adding it to the diet frequently can boost the overall body system so that the most dangerous disorders can be avoided.

Furthermore, proteins are the building blocks of blood vessels and cells that are the most essential and basic part of the human body. High concentrations of proteins in soybeans stimulate cell growth and repair damages.

These vegetables contain the same amount of protein as non-vegetarian foods such as chicken, meat, dairy products, fish, and eggs, which helps vegetarians get a complete protein.

3. Alleviates Sleeping Disorders

Sudden changes in the environment, habits, sleep patterns can lead to various sleep disorders, including insomnia and sleep apnea. These sorts of changes can adversely affect health, which in turn can have major consequences.

According to health experts, soybeans help relieve the symptoms of distinct types of sleep disorders and also contribute greatly to provide quality sleep.

The high amount of magnesium in soybeans helps to manage insomnia, restless sleep, short sleep, etc., which is one of the disorders related to metabolism and also helps to increase the rest, quality and duration of sleep.

The high content of magnesium helps to reduce the waves of thoughts and helps to create sleep easily. So those who have difficulty in sleeping can get the best and quality benefit by including soybeans in their daily diet.

4. Restricts Cancer Cell Growth

The high levels of antioxidants in soybeans help fight free radicals and prevent cancers. These antioxidants inhibit the growth of cancer cells that have entered the body and control their spread.

Studies conducted by Purdue University have demonstrated that the antioxidants have the potential to destroy cancer cells and expel free radicals along with them. If the growth of free radicals goes unnoticed they can over time transform healthy cells into cancer cells and lead to malignant tumors.

These free radicals, which are dangerous by-products of cellular metabolism, are effectively neutralized by the antioxidants of soybeans. In addition, soybeans can help treat the side effects of cancer and reduce its impacts.

More so, the soluble fiber in them forms a gel-like structure in the intestine that treats colon cancer and related disorders. The fiber content helps to reduce the stress effects on the intestinal and gastrointestinal tract by facilitating the digestive process.

5. Prevents Risks in Breast Cancer

Soybeans help reduce the risk of hormone-related cancers. That is, the isoflavones in these natural vegetables prevent and control the development of breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men.

The type of polyphenol, also known as isoflavones, commonly found in legumes, inhibits the growth and spread of cancer caused by hormonal variations and excessive hormone excretion.

In a study conducted on isoflavones in 2019, they were given as a drug to Asian women with cancer. The results showed that the risk of cancer was lower before and after menopause.

In a study conducted by the American Institute of Cancer Research, soy derivatives were given daily to women with breast cancer. At the end of the study, it was revealed that the affected women had fewer menopausal symptoms and less fatigue.

Concentrated isoflavones are found only in fatty soybeans., but the textured vegetable protein in processed soy products is extracted for commercial purposes, which is called protein isolation. So ensure that the Soybean you consume is full of unprocessed and contains full TVP.

6. Boosts Cardiovascular Health

Soybeans contain healthy unsaturated fats called MUFA and PUFA, which contribute to the elimination of harmful bad fats in the body. Adding soybeans to the daily diet, which is one of the best sources of unsaturated fat, can naturally treat conditions such as stroke, heart attack, and atherosclerosis.

In addition, these vegetables contain significant amounts of certain types of fatty acids that are essential for a healthy body system, which help maintain a balanced blood pressure level and effectively manage smooth muscle function.

Health experts stated that they contain significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, also known as linoleic acid and linolenic acid, which help maintain the health of the cardiovascular system.

Such omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to enhance the body’s anti-inflammatory effects, thereby protecting from the eye and brain-related diseases. The low levels of insoluble fiber in soybeans help flush out excess fat deposited in the arteries and blood vessels.

7. Essential for Healthy Pregnancy

Folic acid plays an important role in the development of neural tubes. This is because the folic acid deficiency in pregnant mothers leads to the development of a brain-related disease called anencephaly, and a spine-related disease called spina bifida that occurs in newborns.

To avoid these sorts of disorders, it is essential for the mother and baby to have a certain amount of folic acid in their body before and during childbirth. Soybeans are an excellent source of vitamin B and folic acid for pregnant women.

Most birth defects can be controlled by adding natural products that are high in such nutrients instead of consuming fatty foods. Pregnant women should take folic acid in any form to help improve the baby’s neural tube and brain development.

Soybeans not only provide health to the baby and mother but also pave the way for a healthy delivery. So it is very important to add soybeans to the list of foods to eat during pregnancy.

8. Regulates Digestive Disorders

Soybeans contain both the soluble and insoluble fibers in it, which are important factors for overall body function. The soluble fiber in them relieves digestive disorders by creating a gel-like structure in the intestine.

On the other hand, its insoluble fiber combines with body wastes to increase bowel movements, thus avoiding 80% of digestive disorders. Fiber contents help food waste to be easily digested, eases its movement, and moves on smoothly through the intestines.

Soybeans help to easily handle constipation which can lead to more serious conditions including colon cancer. That is, constipation occurs when the balanced movement of the peristalsis is inhibited, and the fiber in soybean solves this problem by stimulating the peristaltic movement to stable.

Adding soybeans, which are high in fiber, one of the essential nutrients for the health of the body, to the daily diet can treat bad conditions such as intestinal pain, bleeding, hemorrhage, and colon cancer.

Aside from that, soybeans contain carbohydrates called oligosaccharides, which act as prebiotics and stimulate the growth of healthy intestinal bacteria and support proper bowel movement.

9. Promotes Blood Circulation

Soybeans are also rich in iron and copper, which are responsible for the formation of red blood cells (RBCs). Besides, the Journal of the American Dietetic Association states that both of these are essential minerals that contribute greatly to the growth and strength of the body.

If the number of red blood cells drastically increases or decreases, they may have adverse effects. The right amount of red blood cells effectively activates the oxygen and blood flow needed for the body’s vital organ systems and organs to function. This process increases the level of energy and prevents risk factors including anemia.

Besides, Soybeans play an important role in preventing the development of metabolic symptoms and supporting the metabolic process.

According to health experts, frequent addition of soybeans to the diet can increase the number of red blood cells and cause maximum metabolic activity in the body.

10. Aids in Cell Growth & Regeneration

Elastin and Collagen are a type of protein found in the skin of all body parts that are shrinkable. Elastin with elasticity properties every time promotes the ability of the skin to maintain its original shape.

These two proteins found in the skin work together to give the proper shape and structure to the skin. Healthy levels of elastin and collagen proteins keep skin strong and young.

If an injury occurred in an area of the body, the signal is initially sent to these proteins, which are capable of rebuilding lost structures. There they appear as new cells near the site of injury and then regenerate.

Soybean oil extracted from soybeans is a rich source of vitamins. This oil, which has the ability to form a small molecular structure, penetrates the epidermis and stimulates the synthesis of elastin and collagen proteins found within the cellular structure. This process is the basis for the formation of damaged cells and new cell growth.

11. Manages Blood Sugar Levels

Soybeans also have the ability to regulate blood sugar and insulin levels. Various studies have shown that these natural vegetables have the ability to increase insulin receptors.

Such capabilities of soybeans help to effectively control diabetes and manage its side effects. Unlike other foods, soybeans have a very low carbohydrate content and never allow blood sugar levels to rise.

Recognized as excellent anti-diabetic food, the isoflavones in these beans help improve insulin sensitivity, thereby effectively controlling insulin resistance. Eating these in combination with the daily diet results in the cells being able to absorb more glucose and respond more to insulin.

People with diabetes should not only take drugs to control their blood sugar levels but also include natural herbs and nutritious grains in their daily diet for better results over the course of the day.

12. Treats Type 2 Diabetes

The isoflavones in soybeans are extremely active in the cells of patients with type 2 diabetes and help to flush out excess blood sugar and control glucose uptake. Insulin is a hormone that helps convert blood sugar or glucose into energy, and the isoflavones in them help improve insulin sensitivity.

13. Reduces LDL Cholesterol

Glycine Max contributes greatly to the reduction of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides in arteries and blood cells. LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad cholesterol”, can lead to blockages in the arteries and blood vessels.

A study conducted in 2019 demonstrated that Soybeans significantly reduced LDL cholesterol levels. Such natural diets significantly reduce the amount of low-density lipoprotein fat (LDL) and increase the level of high-density lipoprotein fat (HDL).

HDL cholesterol helps break down LDL fat that has accumulated in the arteries and expels them. All forms of soybeans, including soy milk, soybeans, soy curd, soy nuts, and soy protein juices, help lower LDL cholesterol, and increase HDL cholesterol.

14. Strengthen the Bone System

Soybeans are rich in minerals such as selenium, zinc, magnesium, calcium, copper, essential amino acids, and powerful vitamins that contribute to various healthy functions of the body.

The impressive amount of minerals in soybeans plays an important role in keeping bones strong and improving their health. Such powerful components strengthen weakened bones by effectively promoting osteotropic function.

Besides, these greatly promote the growth of new bones and speed up the healing process of damaged bones. Glycine Max greatly aids in the treatment of osteoporosis, which is one of the most common conditions affecting women and the elderly.

Doctors and health experts also suggest that soybeans may be helpful in treating various chronic bone diseases. Adding soybean in any form to the daily diet to ensure that the bones are always strong and avoids other physical ailments.

15. Relieve Menopausal Symptoms

Flavonoid phenolic compounds called iso-flavonoids carry out biological effects through estrogen receptors. These iso-flavonoids, one of the essential components of the female reproductive system, are abundant in soybeans.

These compounds, which bind easily to estrogen receptor cells, are produced during menstruation and help to significantly reduce estrogen levels.

It is generally recommended to consume soybean foods to counteract most of the symptoms that usually occur during menstruation such as abdominal pain, dizziness, vomiting, and mood swings.

On the other hand, estrogen levels fall drastically during menopause, leading to hot flashes, increased appetite, and muscle cramps. Not only soybeans but any diet rich in iso-flavonoids can be helpful in these cases. Adding soybeans to the daily diet can help manage the annoying moments of life called menopausal symptoms.

16. Serves Healthy Weight Management

Not only soybeans but all products made with soybeans are appetite suppressant so that body weight is managed evenly. It is for this reason that soybeans are now popular and fashionable food all over the world.

Soybeans help control obesity and reduce the side effects of obesity. Although these vegetables are high in protein and fiber, they are low in carbohydrates and do not cause weight gain.

Besides, the protein content in them gives the stomach a feeling of fullness and promotes the growth of lean muscle. For those who are frequent eaters, junk food eaters, and those who eat substandard food, soybeans are the best nutritious food and have a positive effect on their weight loss processes.

Being overweight, obese, and triglyceride is important to risk factors for diabetes and heart disease, soybeans help control all of these. Studies have shown that soybeans, which have anti-obesity effects, actually reduce body weight significantly.