#WellnessWednesday

Know Your Soybeans!?

Soybeans or soya beans (Glycine max) are a type of legume native to eastern Asia.

They are an important component of Asian diets and have been consumed for thousands of years.

In Asia, soybeans are often eaten whole, but heavily processed soy products are much more common in Western countries.

Nutrition facts:

The nutrition facts 100 grams of boiled soybeans are:

Calories: 173; Water: 63%; Protein: 16.6 grams; Carbs: 9.9 grams; Sugar: 3 grams; Fiber: 6 grams; Fat: 9 grams [Saturated: 1.3 grams, Monounsaturated: 1.98 grams, Polyunsaturated: 5.06 grams, Omega-3: 0.6 grams, Omega-6: 4.47 g].

Also Vitamin K1, vitamin B9, vitamin B1, Molybdenum, Copper, Manganese, Phosphorus.

Health benefits:

# Soybeans are high in fiber, high in protein, low in saturated fat, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytoestrogens.

# Soybeans are cholesterol free, lactose free.

# Consumption of soy products may reduce the risk of osteoporosis in women who have undergone menopause. These beneficial effects seem to be caused by isoflavones.

# Research suggests antioxidants found in Soybeans reduces cancer risk

# Recent studies link Soybeans consumption with reduced menopausal symptoms caused due to estrogen reduction.

Concerns and adverse effects:

# High intake of soy products may suppress thyroid function in some people and contribute to hypothyroidism.

# Like most other beans, soybeans contain insoluble fibers, which may cause flatulence and diarrhea in sensitive individuals.

# Food allergy is a common condition caused by a harmful immune reaction to certain components in foods.