Improved Nature – September 20, 2023
DECIDING ON SOY
At Improved Nature, we understand that food is deeply personal. Whether it’s your cherished cheat day indulgence or the treasured family recipes passed down through generations, we all have unique tastes and dietary preferences. We also recognize that our bodies are as unique as our food choices, with diverse nutritional needs. Athletes, office workers, individuals with allergies, and those managing autoimmune conditions all require tailored diets.
When embarking on a journey to understand how food impacts your body and discovering the ideal ingredients for your dietary needs, thorough research and consultation with healthcare professionals are essential. To assist you on this quest and to shed light on why we use soy in our Improved Nature products, we want to share some key benefits of incorporating soy into your diet.
We hope this helps you on your journey to find your own nutritional plan or menu (for those of you feeding your family or community).
Soy and Your Health
Like most nutritional research, there are many myths and conflicting conclusions about soy’s health benefits. However, according to the Harvard School of Public Health, “soy is a nutrient-dense source of protein that can safely be consumed several times a week, and probably more often, and is likely to provide health benefits—especially when eaten as an alternative to red and processed meat.”
One remarkable aspect of soy is its versatility, available in various forms such as the edamame you have with sushi and the tofu you can get at your local grocery store. Soy protein is another form that packs a protein punch and can be used as a meat replacement. It’s also what we use here at Improved Nature in our Nature’s PRIME and Nature’s Meat products. We use the science of soy to meet your meat cravings and deliver the nutrition your body needs.
Myths aside, there are many health benefits to soy. The benefits vary based on the form of soy you consume, but these are the basics of why soy could be a great choice for your nutrition.
- It Blocks the “Bad” Cholesterol
LDL cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol, can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that soy protein can help lower LDL cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. The FDA has approved a health claim stating that consuming 25 grams of soy protein per day as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
- It Provides Vital Nutrients
A Good Source of Potassium: Potassium supplies your body with the necessary nutrition for your heart, kidneys, and nerves. One cup of soybeans contains nearly 886 milligrams of potassium. That’s approximately twice the amount you’d get from a banana and as much as one-third of the daily value needed for our bodies.
High in Fiber: Fiber is also necessary to maintain a healthy colon and other vital organs. There are around 10 grams of fiber in one cup of soybeans. Comparatively, animal proteins like beef, chicken, and fish contain 0 grams of fiber. Adding soy to your diet can help maintain good colon health.
A Complete Protein: Beyond providing fiber, vitamins and minerals, soy stands out as the only vegetable protein that qualifies as a complete protein. A protein is considered complete if it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own. This makes a plant-based diet much more accessible and nutritionally balanced.
In addition to its health benefits, soy is also a sustainable alternative to meat. Livestock farming is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. On the other hand, soybeans require significantly less water and land to produce, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Our commitment to sustainable practices is reflected in the companies we have chosen to work with. In fact, our soybean supplier has set a goal “to be deforestation-free in all of our supply chains by 2025”.
The Bottom Line
Soy protein is a nutritious and sustainable option for those looking to reduce their meat consumption. So next time you’re in the market for a healthy plant-based protein alternative, give soy protein a try. Your heart, your body, and the planet will thank you!
Sources:
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/a20707020/is-soy-good-or-bad-for-you/
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/soy/
https://www.adm.com/en-us/sustainability/
About Improved Nature
Improved Nature’s plant-based proteins are the cleanest and most versatile plant-powered products on the market. The company’s plant-based protein products are made from only one ingredient that provides complete protein. The products deliver meat-like texture and neutral flavor which allows for unlimited menu possibilities. Improved Nature is on a mission to feed the growing population with better protein. To learn more, visit www.ImprovedNature.com.
