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Soy
May help prevent: cancer, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure,
intestinal disease, menopausal symptoms, obesity, osteoporosis
Although soy foods have been a staple in many parts of the world, their
popularity in North America has exploded in recent years. Supermarkets
now carry a wide selection of soy foods including tofu, miso, tempeh,
veggie burgers, soynuts, and soymilk. Soy foods provide a prime source
of phytoestrogens, the hormone-like compounds in plants that appear to
reduce the risk for heart disease by lowering cholesterol and protect
against some kinds of cancer, particularly prostate, colon and breast
cancer. Plus, phytoestrogens appear to reduce menopausal symptoms such
as hot flashes and lower the risk for osteoporosis by reducing the loss
of calcium from bones. When consumed on a regular basis, soy foods have
also been shown to control blood sugar levels, reducing the risk for
diabetes and obesity. Emerging research indicates that soy protein may
help the fight against high blood pressure. In addition to its phytoestrogen,
the majority of soy foods supply a rich source of protein and are good
sources of both calcium and iron.
Action Tip: Add silken tofu to smoothies, dressings, sauces or soups. Firm tofu
is ideal for stir-fries, grilling, sautés,
or topped on pizza. Also look for pre-marinated varieties. Select soynuts
from the Bulk Food
Department at your local Save-On-Foods and enjoy as a snack in trail mix
or tossed on salads or cereal. Try soymilk in smoothies, over cereal
or enjoy a glass with a meal or snack. Replace small amounts of soy flour
for flour in recipes.
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