Tofu, derived from soya beans, offers a lot of amazing health benefits, including reducing the risk of cancer, osteoporosis and anemia; reducing cholesterol and maintaining cardiovascular health. For many centuries, this amazing ingredient has been used in many global cuisines, like Chinese foods. So what is tofu in the first place?
Tofu: What Is It?
Bean curd, or tofu, is made by pressing soya milk into white flat blocks. Vegetarians and vegans favor tofu because it has no trace of any animal products and is entirely organic. Not only that, the food is also rich in nutrients.
The term tofu comes from Japan, but it is now used globally as a delicious, nutrient-rich substitute for meat. It is low in calories but contains many organic compounds which are important for the body. Although it isn’t technically a protein, it has a lot of protein in it and makes a perfect addition to other healthy foods.
Tofu: Nutritional Values
Tofu contains a very minute quantity of fat. However, it is oozing with protein, which is important for the overall function of the body. Its low calorie content makes it ideal for those trying to lose weight, and its low sodium and virtually non-existent cholesterol makes it a very heart-healthy ingredient.
When it comes to the minerals and vitamins, tofu is rich in iron, copper, magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, manganese, calcium, zinc and potassium. It also has significant levels of vitamin K, riboflavin, vitamin B6, thiamin and folate, as well as some amounts of niacin and pantothenic acid. These vitamins, in combination with all the essential minerals in tofu, makes it a very healthy choice.
Amazing Health Benefits of Tofu
Here are some of the most amazing health benefits of tofu:
Helps prevent breast and prostate cancer. Research suggests that the genistein content of tofu has antioxidant properties, which may help prevent the growth of cancer cells. Furthermore, there is also evidence that regular soy consumption may help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Helps prevent cardiovascular disease. The isoflavones in tofu help reduce cholesterol, lowering bad levels although not necessarily increasing good levels.
Helps improve kidney function. The soy protein, in particular, helps enhance renal function, particularly helping those who are undergoing a kidney transplant or kidney dialysis.
Helps prevent osteoporosis. The isoflavones in tofu may help reduce the risk of bone loss and increase bone density, especially in menopausal women.
Helps prevent type 2 diabetes. Some studies show that soy protein is even more beneficial than animal protein, particularly in those suffering from type 2 diabetes.
Helps prevent liver damage. A certain study shows that tofu may help prevent the risk of liver damage.
Helps prevent age-related brain illnesses. Some population studies suggest that, in places where people consume more soy, there are lower numbers of age-related mental illnesses. Furthermore, studies also show that soy products may help people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Nutritional content of Tofu
Here are some of the nutritional contents that contribute to the amazing health benefits of tofu:
-Folate: 27 mcg
-Zinc: 2 mg
-Potassium: 178 mg
-Phosphorus: 282 mg
-Iron: 3.35 mg
-Magnesium: 65
-Calcium: 421 mg
-Protein: 15.57 g
-Fat: 12.19 g
-Carbohydrates: 5.36 g
-Calories: 177
Conclusion
Tofu really is an amazing food. Not only does it taste delicious, but it is oozing with health benefits which help prevent various illnesses. As always, practice moderation in what you consume, but rest assured that tofu is an excellent choice!
