Which Soy Foods DO Have Health Benefits?
The few types of soy that ARE healthy are all fermented varieties. After a long fermentation process, the phytic acid and antinutrient levels of the soybeans are reduced, and their beneficial properties -- such as the creation of natural probiotics -- become available to your digestive system. The fermentation process also greatly reduces the levels of dangerous isoflavones, which are similar to estrogen in their chemical structure, and can interfere with the action of your own estrogen production. So if you want to eat soy that is actually good for you, following are all healthy options:
Natto, fermented soybeans with a sticky texture and strong, cheese-like flavor. It's loaded with nattokinase, a very powerful blood thinner. Natto is the highest source of vitamin K2 on the planet and has a very powerful beneficial bacteria, bacillus subtilis. It can usually be found in any Asian grocery store.
Tempeh, a fermented soybean cake with a firm texture and nutty, mushroom-like flavor.
Miso, a fermented soybean paste with a salty, buttery texture (commonly used in miso soup).
Soy sauce: traditionally, soy sauce is made by fermenting soybeans, salt and enzymes, however be wary because many varieties on the market are made artificially using a chemical process.
I found this post to be very interesting! I found an article on the many uses of soybeans that I think you should check out. Enjoy!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.petermanseye.com/passions/farming/340-mighty-bean
tina, thanks for that.
ReplyDeletealthough he can't use comparisons to asian and western women...too many factors have a part to play in osteoporosis (gluten, sunshine, vit K...)
i think in the end if used as a bean in moderation (i.e. at my favorite sushi boat once per week), it's all good, as far as using it for all protein, soap, oils...you get my drift...i'm not sure about that cause you never know
side note - if you ask most vegetarians, they'll use it for sure, but not in overabundance