The humble soybean. It's as nutritionally complete as food can be, as well as inexpensive. Best of all, it may also help to reduce harmfully high cholesterol levels.
As part of an experiment, adults who ordinarily ate foods high in fat content were put on a soybean diet. Within only a few weeks, their cholesterol levels dropped an average of twenty percent.
Scientists say that what the soybean accomplished in only a few weeks would have taken an ordinary, low-fat diet months to achieve. The soybean acts as a double-fisted fat fighter. It contains lecithin, a natural fat emulsifier; in addition, it contains a high amount of fiber.
They soybean is a rich source of protein, B complex vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and iron. It has ten times the calcium of meat and twice that of eggs. Soybean oil contains large amount of linoleic acid, an unsaturated fatty acid thats essential to the human body, as well as vitamins E and K. Soy milk is often recommended for those who are allergic to cows milk. Its low in fat and carbohydrates but rich in iron, thiamine, and niacin.
For vegetarians, the soybean holds a special place of honor. Its exceptionally high level of protein often puts it center stage on their dinner menus. Theres soybean sweet potato pies, soy burgers, soy grits, soybean pates. Use soy oil for frying. Soy flour and granules may be added to all kinds of food and baked goods, boosting the nutritional value. For a healthy, cholesterol-busting fast-food snack, roast the beans.
Robin Westen Is ThirdAge's health reporter. Check for her daily updates.
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