More and more, people are becoming interested in alternatives to meat and dairy products. They recognize the importance of good health and the role diet plays in overall wellness. Soy protein refers to that which is derived from soybeans. There are numerous touted soy protein benefits for men, women and children.

It is fundamental to know where the soy is being sourced from. This is because modern day crops are often tied to genetically modified organisms, which are not known to be beneficial. People should seek out non-GMO sources of protein to get the best results.

Generally, soy protein is used in the diets of those who do not consume animal proteins. While this is typical, not all who eat soy products are vegetarian or vegan. Soybeans are legumes that are low in saturated fat and have no cholesterol. They are the only vegetable food source that contain all eight of the essential amino acids. This alone makes them a healthy choice. They are also a high source of B vitamins, zinc, calcium, fiber and iron.

Soy can greatly benefit pregnant women because it has important nutrients they require, including vitamin D. Many get enough of the vitamin just by daily exposure to the sun. However, deficiency is becoming more common and soy milk is a great alternative for those not wanting to consumed fortified milk or unable to get the natural sunlight they require to meet their daily vitamin D needs.

This is said to be a healthier option that consuming animals, which can lead to heart problems when eating too frequently. People who have high cholesterol may see the best benefits from adding soy to their diet. Approximately 25 grams of the protein per day must be consumed for results to be observable. This can be taken in through many different forms, including soy milk, tofu and flour. Look at food labels to determine how much soy is present.

Studies show that this can aid with controlling hyperglycemia. Likewise, it can benefit those trying to reduce and maintain body weight, or manage hyperlipidemia and hyperinsulenima. This is ideal for both diabetics and non-diabetics who strive to control their weight and improve blood sugar.

Soy contains genistein, which is a phytochemical known to reduce risk of cancers, including breast and prostate. One serving of this a day can help with cancer prevention. Women struggling with menopausal symptoms might also benefit from consuming this protein on a regular basis. It is believed to positive influence calcium and bone balance in postmenopausal women.

It is important to do research to learn about soy. This should be added to the diet with caution, as some are allergic or sensitive to this protein. It is fundamental to get a quality source of soy and closely monitor the response of the body. In people with some medical conditions, soy could cause more harm than good. This is why consulting with a doctor before adding this to a diet is recommended. There is still a lot of research to be done on the benefits of this, although it has been proven to promote positive changes when consumed moderately.