Soy is one superfood that continues to gain attention for its many health benefits. Studies have illustrated soy’s ability to improve bone health, alleviate menopausal symptoms and reduce risk of some diseases.
Recent scientific breakthroughs have uncovered even further benefits of soy for cardiovascular health, weight loss and skin care.
1. Lunasin is nutritional “magic” for cardio health.
In 1999, the FDA approved a health claim that “25 grams of soy protein per day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.” This claim was based on research findings that soy-based diets reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL (good) cholesterol.
However, it wasn’t until recently that science uncovered the nutritional “magic” behind soy’s cholesterol-lowering abilities. Studies show lunasin, a naturally occurring peptide found in soy, is largely responsible. Lunasin works to lower cholesterol in two ways:
·disrupts the production of cholesterol in the liver
·improves the liver’s ability to clear LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream
2. Protein and peptides are heavy hitters for weight loss.
For many years, dieters have relied on the mighty soybean to aid in weight loss efforts. It made sense because soy is high in protein and fiber for satiety, while also low in fat. But a study showed that soy also has an effect on the mechanisms in the body that boost metabolism. In other words, soy packs a powerful one-two punch for weight loss by addressing both food intake and calorie burning.
3. Antioxidant promotes supple skin.
Studies suggest the combination of consuming soy and applying it topically may provide a host of skin benefits. Soy’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can reduce the redness caused by acne and sun exposure. It also helps promote the synthesis of collagen and improves skin elasticity. Soy even improves the skin’s ability to retain moisture.
Skincare products with soy can help reduce wrinkles, skin discoloration and inflammation when used over time.
Sources:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070501115010.htm
http://www.soyconnection.com/newsletters/soy-connection/health-nutrition/article.php/Oral+and+Topical+Use+of+Soy+May+Provide+Skin+Benefits?id=271 http://www.chron.com/news/article/Cosmetics-companies-get-in-on-soy-s-skin-benefits-1608610.phphttp://www.nutraceuticalsworld.com/issues/2007-12/view_supplier-research/lunasin-demonstrates-cholesterol-lowering-properti/
http://newhope360.com/study-soy-labs-lunasin-demonstrates-its-cholesterol-lowering-properties
http://www.lunasin.com/About/CardiovascularResearch.aspx