The hodge-podge of keeping
oneself fit and fine sometimes leads to disdain for the requirement of protein.
Since fitness & health and proper diet work hand in hand. The major concern
before exercising should be getting a proper source to fulfill the need for
protein.
The trend of a healthy diet
is highly growing all over. This in turn is not just leading the people to
become diet conscious, but also insisting them to switch to either vegetarian
or vegan food products. Among these, soy protein is gaining huge attraction
under the name ‘powerhouse of nutrition’. The fact that soy protein is
completely plant-based and have all the essential amino acids is further
supporting its popularity. At the same time, it is one of the best sources of
dairy free protein which magnetize the crowd even more.
Soy protein, furthermore, is
one of the few plant-based proteins that is considered to be complete. In
addition, it comes in three key forms as soy protein isolate, soy protein
concentrate, and textured soy protein. Soy protein is associated with an array
of benefits, for a fact. However, what is the major benefit it offers is providing
a better choice over whey-based protein products.
Nevertheless, there are
numerous health benefits that are linked with this plant-based protein. So
let’s get to a few of them-
Low cholesterol and saturated fat
Meat-based protein products
and other sources mostly have a high level of cholesterol as well as saturated
fats. One of the major reasons why people are switching more towards
plant-based diets is less consumption of dietary cholesterol. This, in turn,
makes soy protein a useful substitute for meat-based products.
High in zinc
Unlike many other
plant-based sources, soya bean is relatively high in zinc. Compared to
meat-based products the absorption of zinc from soy is a little lower. However,
it is still enough to meet the requirements of the body. Lower levels of zinc
are mostly associated with low testosterone.
Energy booster and full of fiber
Soy protein is rich in
vitamin B and minerals including phosphorous, potassium, and magnesium. All of
these are known best to reinforce the immune system and produce energy.
Including soy protein in a regular diet can aid with improving the all-round
feeling of health and wellness. At the same time, soy protein has a high amount
of fiber that lowers cholesterol along with improving gut bacteria and
functioning, thereby offering better performance overall.
Good for Controlling obesity and diabetes
Soy protein is beneficial
for controlling hyperglycemia and weight loss. At the same time, soy protein
also aids in balancing sugar levels. This makes it a better option for
fulfilling the need for protein in both diabetic and obese people.
Prevents Cancer
Soy protein has Genistein, a
phytochemical that can reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancer. Genistein
restrains the development of cancer thereby preventing the tumors to generate
blood vessels.
Vegetarians and vegan diets
mostly face the problems associated with lack of protein in their diets. For a
fact, lack of protein can lead to numerous deficiencies. However, soybean as
the complete source of protein has become an integral part of these diets along
with offering various other minerals and vitamins. In addition, soy protein has
come out to be the best substitute for meat and dairy-based proteins. Moreover,
soy protein is now majorly utilized for producing infant food, functional food,
and bakery and confectionery products.
Other than adults, soy
protein is considered best for newborns. Many infants are incapable to digest
breast milk as well as regular formula. Soy protein acts as a lifesaver in such
circumstances at the same time. Products based on soy protein can also be added
to the child’s diet later on, for giving her health a boost.
Owing
to the numerous advantages, the demand for soy protein has been hiked up in the
past few years. According to a report published by Allied Market Research, the global soy protein ingredients market was
estimated at $7. 5 billion in 2016 and would hit $12.2 billion by 2023. Health
awareness among the consumer is highly increasing. Also, people are more
switching towards vegan and vegetarian diets. These factors, therefore, are
highly fueling the demand for plant-based protein products.
At the same time, the growth in consumption of sports nutrition supplements and the growing trend of workout and fitness management is augmenting the demand for soy protein. Moreover, the surge in awareness regarding the advantages of plant-based food products in the emerging economies is another factor of growth in the market. Nevertheless, all these aspects are anticipated to expand the prospects for the market players in the approaching time.