Soy protein is a plant-based protein that comes from beans. This makes it an important protein source for vegetarians and those who avoid dairy products. It is cholesterol-free and has very little saturated fat. Soy protein is divided into two categories:
1. Soy protein isolate
This is the highest quality soy protein available. It is more refined and processed than the other two, but also has the highest biological value, which means that the protein in it can be used to a higher degree after digestion and absorption by the human body. Soy protein isolate can be found in the following foods:
Protein supplements (protein shakes, protein bars, etc.)
Dairy products
Certain meat substitutes
Condiments
Bakery products
2. Soy protein concentrate (SPC)
SPC is obtained by removing sugars (part of the soy carbohydrates) from shelled soybeans. It is still high in protein, but retains most of the fiber, so it is good for digestive health. Soy protein concentrate is commonly found in:
Cereals
Baked goods
Infant formula
Certain meat substitute products
Beer
Benefits of Soy Bean Protein
One of the reasons people turn to a plant-based diet is to reduce the cholesterol in their diet, as high-meat diets are often high in cholesterol. One of the advantages of soy protein is that it is cholesterol-free, contains low levels of saturated fat, and is a high-quality protein. This makes it a great alternative to meat products. Further research suggests that soy may actually lower LDL levels (the so-called "bad cholesterol") and raise HDL levels of good cholesterol. This effect was found to be greater in less processed soy than in refined protein.
Soy protein is relatively high in zinc, which is different from many other plant-based sources of protein. The body absorbs only 25% less zinc from soy than from meat. Low zinc levels are associated with low testosterone levels, which can affect muscle growth and cause fatigue. So if you often feel sleepy, you can try a soy protein shake.
Soy protein is also rich in B vitamins, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, which are all necessary to support the immune system and energy production. Soy protein is nutritionally complete and can make you feel full of energy and energetic.
What is Soy Protein Used for?
Soy protein can be used as a meal replacement or as a supplement in addition to your diet. Since it has many variations and options, there are countless possibilities for use. Soy protein can be used as a supplement to your regular diet. If you're looking to increase your protein intake but can't use whey or casein, soy protein may be a good option. It's high in branched-chain amino acids and contains all nine essential amino acids, so you can continue to maintain your muscle-building goals.
Want to lose weight? Soy protein supplements can easily be incorporated into a reduced-calorie diet plan or a diet designed to gain muscle: Soy is high in leucine, an amino acid that promotes muscle growth. Leucine is essential when you want to maintain and increase muscle, whether you're gaining or losing weight.
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