What is soy protein?
Soy protein is made using soya beans, and is very low in (or free of) fat, cholesterol and lactose. Soy protein is approved for those who are lactose intolerant, and it’s fast digestion properties with a high Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS) make it ideal for athletes.
Soy protein - more than just a protein shake!
Soy protein has been used in the natural product industry for years and has only recently been isolated for use in protein drinks by athletes. Not only can you use soy protein supplements in your shakes, but you can use the same powder in cooking instead of flour to produce foods that are high in protein and low in fat!
What does soy protein do?
Soy protein is the best way to increase, or supplement, your protein intake using non-animal sources. Soy Protein’s high BCAA score (the composition amino acids within the protein) make it ideal for muscle growth and high protein diets.
The benefits of soy primarily come from its isoflavone content. Isoflavones are a type of antioxidant that combats cell damage. These isoflavones have anabolic effects, aiding in repairing damaged muscle tissue after resistance training.
Soy protein also has these positive health benefits:
- Maintains cholesterol levels within a normal range by blocking the absorption of LDL Cholesterol
- Helps reduce the risk of heart disease
- Supports a healthy immune system
- Epidemiological studies suggest that soy protein may reduce the risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer and prostate cancer.
Who can benefit from supplementing with soy protein?
Almost anyone can benefit from using soy protein supplements. In particular, those who are lactose intolerant or on a vegan diet can increase their protein intake using soy protein. Soy protein has been shown to be effective as both a weight gain (muscle building) and weight loss supplement.
Does soy protein have any side effects?
Soy protein is safe for anyone that is not allergic to soya beans. There have been no reported side effects from using soy protein supplements in a wide variety of doses. If you’re taking any prescription medicine you should consult your doctor before taking soy protein supplements.
