If you consider yourself tofu-timid and soy-challenged, you’re not alone. However, mounting evidence that soy is protective against heart disease, some cancers, osteoporosis and helpful in relieving symptoms of menopause may be cause for reconsideration.
Soy protein differs from animal protein and most other vegetable protein because it appears to alter the metabolism of cholesterol in the liver. Some studies have shown that those who consumed soy, rather than animal protein, significantly decreased blood serum cholesterol.
It is important to note that not all foods made from soy deliver all the health benefits derived from whole soy. Franklin Farms, a leading grower of fresh certified organic mushrooms located in North Franklin, Connecticut, offers the only complete line of vegetarian burgers with soy protein and important isoflavones (a key component of soy protein with protective health benefits.) Not only does each burger contain almost twice as much soy protein as tofu or soy milk, but they taste great! Even the tofu timid can find ways to incorporate more soy and isoflavones into their diets. Check out our recipes, for quick, delicious meal ideas.
For more information on the benefits of soy, click here to download a recent article by nutrition expert Jane Kirby, RD. (You'll need Adobe Acrobat to do so.)
