In a world where eating meat isn’t the healthiest or most sustainable option right now, tofu is a nutritious and flavorful alternative for carnivores and vegetarians alike. Produced from pressed soybean curd, it usually starts out as a small white block that resembles cheese.
If you don’t like the taste of tofu on its own, there are many recipes that make it taste like meat. In fact, it is a staple food eaten daily in Asia. It’s an incredibly versatile form of protein that could help you live longer, so get it into your diet as soon as possible. These are all the fascinating ways that tofu can help make you healthier.
1. An antioxidant powerhouse
Tofu is essentially a superfood, meaning it contains several antioxidant phytochemicals that are highly anti-inflammatory. This is ideal for anyone with chronic pain, arthritis, or other inflammation-related issues.
2. It is a complete source of protein
It is difficult for vegetarians to fill up on protein, since meat is naturally rich. Fortunately, tofu is a complete source of protein, which means its amino acid profile is balanced. It also has a good amount of magnesium, iron, copper, and other important minerals that your body needs.
3. It can relieve the symptoms of menopause
The isoflavones in tofu mimic estrogen in the body, which can relieve some symptoms of perimenopause, such as irritability and hot flashes. However, it may not be beneficial for women with a history of breast cancer.
4. May Help Control Blood Sugar and Heart Health
According to some studies, tofu may help reduce fasting insulin levels and insulin resistance, which may even encourage better cholesterol levels while lowering “bad” cholesterol. The isoflavones in tofu are a compound that helps clear clogged arteries. Also, plant estrogen helps your endothelium work better. Your endothelium is the tissue that lines your blood vessels and the inside of your heart.
5. It can fight osteoporosis
We often lose bone mass as we age, especially after women go through menopause. But tofu is rich in vitamin D and calcium, which are essential for maintaining bone density and health. Plant estrogens in tofu also help promote healthier bone mass
Looking to strengthen your immune system? Have a stir fry night and add some tofu! Due to the high levels of zinc in soybeans, tofu can boost your immunity. This mineral regulates the cells in our body and kills germs before they have a chance to make us sick. Since zinc comes primarily from meat intake, this is a great option for vegetarians and vegans who don’t take a zinc supplement.
7. Does not contain saturated fat
the meat is certainly filling, but it often contains high levels of saturated fat. This can lead to heart disease in the future. Tofu, on the other hand, does not contain saturated fat and is therefore a more heart-healthy option. Unlike meats, it’s also very filling, which can help prevent overeating and accidentally gaining weight.
8. High in fiber
Fiber is one of the most important things you can consume – it keeps your gut healthy and also keeps your bowel movements regular. Little do people know, but fiber can also help reduce the risk of stroke while regulating blood sugar. It can also relieve IBS symptoms and reduce the chances of getting hemorrhoids. Lucky for you, tofu is high in fiber.
9. It can improve anemia
Due to the non-heme iron levels found in soybeans, tofu is an excellent choice for people who are anemic and for those looking for a solution to their iron deficiency. For those who don’t get their iron from meat, this news may be lifesaving.
10. It could help repair the skin
This is one of those unexpected health benefits of tofu. Every day UV lights and bacteria damage our skin, but consuming tofu can help reduce that damage. According to certain studies, soy can increase collagen protection and reduce inflammation, which helps keep skin safe from UV rays. Still, you should double down with some sunscreen just to be safe.
Remember… moderation is the key
Tofu can be a healthy dietary addition to many lifestyles, but it can provide excess nutrients as well as excess estrogen in the body. If you choose to eat it daily, try not to exceed four ounces per day. People with estrogen-sensitive breast cancer should limit their intake, as the phytochemicals in tofu can mimic human estrogen; if you’re not sure if it’s right for you, talk to your doctor beforehand.
