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Soybean

Soybean
Soybean, commonly known as Soy, is a leguminous crop that contains high amounts of beneficial components such as proteins, fibers, etc. It has high oil content and contains nutrients like calcium, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, etc.
Soybean improves metabolism which helps in weight management. It also helps manage blood sugar levels by increasing insulin secretion due to its antioxidant property. Soy milk that is prepared from Soybean helps in managing lactose intolerance as it is lactose-free. It is often considered an ideal replacement of milk.
Soybean is considered to be good for the skin due to its anti-aging property. Applying Soybean oil to the skin helps in skin cell regeneration. Being rich in high-quality protein, Soybean oil might prevent hair damage and improve hair growth.
It is important to know that Soybean might cause allergic reactions such as rash and itching in some people. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Soybean in people allergic to Soybean or other Soy products[1-3][7][9].

What are the synonyms of Soybean?

Glycine max, Soya, Soy, Bhat, Bhatwar, Bhetmas, Ramkurthi, Soyabean.

What is the source of Soybean?

Plant Based

Benefits of Soybean

What are the benefits of Soybean for Breast cancer?

scientific
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the use of Soybean in breast cancer. However, some studies suggest that the consumption of Soybean might be safe and beneficial in breast cancer due to the presence of isoflavones[3][11].

What are the benefits of Soybean for Diabetes?

scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean might help manage diabetes due to its antioxidant property. It reduces the breakdown of carbohydrates, prevents the damage of pancreatic cells and enhances insulin secretion. This lowers blood sugar levels and manages diabetes[4].

Tips for using Soybean in diabetes
a. Take Roasted soybeans (seasoned or unseasoned) as a snack.
b. You can also grind them to make a powder and add it to your diet.
c. This will help maintain normal blood sugar levels.

What are the benefits of Soybean for High cholesterol?

scientific
Modern Science View
Soy or Soybean oil consumption might help manage cholesterol levels due to its hypolipidemic property. It contains antioxidants which lowers the level of total blood cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides and manages cholesterol levels[6][7].

Tips for using Soybean oil
a. Use Soybean oil (as per your requirement cooking) for cooking your daily meals to manage your cholesterol levels.

What are the benefits of Soybean for Hypertension (high blood pressure)?

scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean consumption might help manage blood pressure levels due to the presence of certain constituents (saponins). These constituents help regulate the hormonal system (renin-angiotensin system) which controls blood pressure[8].

What are the benefits of Soybean for Osteoporosis?

scientific
Modern Science View
Soybeans or soy based products help manage osteoporosis due to its anti-resorptive property. It slows down or blocks the resorption of bone. It also maintains the density as well as quality of bone, and strengthens them[10].

Tips for using Soybean in Osteoporosis
a. Take Soybean seeds and germinate them to form sprouts.ns
b. Use these sprouts either with cooked vegetables or add them to soup.
c. This will fulfill your daily needs of nutrition and make your bones healthy.

What are the benefits of Soybean for Inflammatory bowel disease?

scientific
Modern Science View
Soybeans or soy supplements helps in inflammatory bowel disease (IBS) due to the presence of certain constituents (proteins and isoflavones). These constituents have anti-inflammatory property. This inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators and reduces inflammation. They also have antioxidant properties which prevents the further intestinal cell damage[12].

What are the benefits of Soybean for Menopausal symptoms?

scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean helps in the management of menopausal symptoms due to the presence of certain constituent (phytoestrogens). These constituents are similar to the naturally occurring hormone (estrogen). They help maintain hormonal balance and thus provide relief from symptoms related to menopause[13].

What are the benefits of Soybean for Metabolic syndrome?

scientific
Modern Science View
Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease. It includes risk factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, increased triglycerides/decreased HDL cholesterol, and hypertension etc. Soybean helps manage metabolic syndrome due to the presence of high fiber as well as certain constituents (phytoestrogens). It helps manage weight, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Thus it can be used as a preventive diet for maintaining normal heart functioning[14].

How effective is Soybean?

Likely effective
Breast cancer, Diabetes, High cholesterol, Hypertension (high blood pressure), Inflammatory bowel disease, Menopausal symptoms, Metabolic syndrome, Osteoporosis

Precautions when using Soybean

Allergy
scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean might cause certain allergic reactions like rashes and itching in people having allergic rhinitis. So, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before using Soybean in such people[3].
Breastfeeding
scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean or Soy proteins are safe to be taken in food amounts during breastfeeding. However, it is advisable to avoid excessive consumption or consult a physician before taking Soybean during breastfeeding[3].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean or Soy products might decrease the effectiveness of warfarin which is used to slow the blood clotting process. So, it is advisable to avoid the use of Soybean with warfarin as this might increase the risk of blood clotting[3].
Patients with diabetes
scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean consumption might decrease blood glucose levels. So, it is advisable for patients taking antihypertensive medications to monitor blood sugar level regularly and consult a physician before taking Soybean[3].
Patients with kidney disease
scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean products might increase the risk of kidney stones as it contains a high amount of oxalates which is the main cause of kidney stones. So it is advisable for patients having kidney problems to avoid excessive consumption of Soybean[3].
Pregnancy
scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean or Soy proteins are safe to be taken in food amounts during pregnancy. However, it is advisable to avoid excessive consumption or consult a physician before taking Soybean during Pregnancy[3].
Side Effects
Important
scientific
Modern Science View
1. Constipation
2. Bloating
3. Nausea[3].

How to use Soybean

1. Soy Isoflavones Capsule
a. Take 1 Soy isoflavones capsule (or as directed by the physician).
b. Have it with normal water twice a day after breakfast.
c. This is beneficial in case of vitamin deficiency, depression, stress, diabetes.

2. Soybean Oil
a. Use Soybean oil (as per your requirement cooking) for cooking your daily meals to manage your cholesterol levels.

3. Non Fermented soy food
i. Soy Milk
a. It is obtained by heating water extract of grinded Soybeans and filtering it.
b. It resembles dairy milk.
c. Serve it hot or cold as a beverage in breakfast or with other foods to fulfil daily nutritional needs.
d. This helps maintain good digestion and is also beneficial in diabetes.

ii. Tofu
a. It is white protein curd precipitated from Soy milk with salt or acid.
b. You can use it in cooking with or without meat.
c. It can also be used as vegetable seasonings and served as a main dish or soup to get instant energy.

iii. Soy Sprouts
a. They are formed by germinating soybean seeds and are dark yellow cotyledons with white sprouts.
b. Use them in cooking as a vegetable or in soups.
This will help fulfill nutrition deficiency.

iv. Roasted Soybeans
a.Use dry roasted Soybeans (seasoned or unseasoned) as a snack.
b. You can also make powder of it and add it as a seasoning to food.
c. This will help maintain normal blood sugar levels.

4. Fermented oriental soya Foods
i. Shoyu (Soy sauce)
a. It is a dark-brown liquid extracted from fermented mixture of Soybeans.
b. Use it as a seasoning for dishes or soups[30].

Benefits of Soybean

What are the benefits of Soybean for Vaginitis?

scientific
Modern Science View
Vaginal atrophy is the condition where the vaginal walls become thin, dry and inflamed due to the lower levels of estrogen in the body. Soybean might help in the management of Vaginal atrophy due to the presence of certain constituents (Isoflavones). These constituents help manage symptoms of Vaginal atrophy. Topical application of Soybean gel on vaginal area provides relief from drying, thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls[27].

What are the benefits of Soybean for Wrinkles?

scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean might help manage skin wrinkles and other signs of skin ageing due to its anti-aging property. The antioxidants present in Soybean fight against free radicals that might damage the skin. These antioxidants also protects the skin against harmful effects of UV radiation[28].

Tips for using Soybean oil on skin
a. Take a few drops of Soybean oil.
b. Mix it with coconut oil.
c. Apply this mixture on the affected area once or twice a week to get rid of wrinkles on the skin.

How effective is Soybean?

Insufficient evidence
Vaginitis, Wrinkles

Precautions when using Soybean

Allergy
scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean might cause allergic reactions like rash, itching, etc in people allergic to Soybean or Soy products. So, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before using Soybean[3].
Breastfeeding
scientific
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the external use of Soybean in Breastfeeding. So it is recommended to consult a physician before applying Soybean products during Breastfeeding[3].
Pregnancy
scientific
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the external use of Soybean in Pregnancy. So,it is recommended to consult a physician before applying Soybean products during Pregnancy[3].

How to use Soybean

1. Soybean Oil
Tips for using Soybean oil
a. Take a few drops of Soybean oil.
b. Mix it with coconut oil
c. Apply this mixture on the affected area once or twice a week to get rid of wrinkle on the skin.

2. Hair Problems
a. Take a few drops of Soybean oil.
b. Mix it with olive oil or coconut oil.
c. Apply it on the scalp and massage gently.
d. Leave it overnight or 40-45 minutes before washing the head.
e. This will reduce hair fall and prevent premature greying of hair.

Frequently asked questions

Q. Is Soybean good for anemia?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean is considered to be good for anemia as it contains iron. It balances the iron-deficient diet and improves hemoglobin content. This helps manage anemia[5].

Q. Is Soybean good for bodybuilding?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean might help in bodybuilding as it is rich in proteins. These proteins help improve muscle formation and help in bodybuilding[19].

Q. Is Soybean good for babies?

scientific
Modern Science View
Soybean might be good for babies in food amounts or as an ingredient in infant formulas. However, some studies suggest that Soy milk might not be an ideal food option for babies as its regular consumption might lead to nutrient deficiencies (such as Vitamin D and calcium). So it is generally advisable to consult a physician before using Soybean or Soy milk in babies[3].

Q. Is Soybean good for constipation?

scientific
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Soybean in managing constipation. However, its laxative property might help manage constipation[15].

Q. Is soybean good for osteoarthritis?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soy or Soybean oil might manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis as it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Certain constituents present in Soybean inhibits the activity of mediators responsible for inflammation. This reduces joint pain and swelling associated with osteoarthritis[16].

Q. Is Soybean good for GERD?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean is helpful in managing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) due to its anti-secretory and antioxidant properties. The antioxidants present in Soybean suppresses gastric acid secretion and provides relief from acid reflux. It also protects the gastric and esophageal cells against damage caused by acid[17].

Q. Is Soybean good for herpes?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean might help in herpes due to its antiherpes property. It inhibits the growth and multiplication of the herpes virus. This prevents the activity of the virus that affects the external genitalia, mucosal surfaces and skin[18].

Q. Is Soybean good for the liver?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean or Soy Milk might be good for the liver due to its hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties. The antioxidants present in Soy Milk fights against free radicals and prevents liver cell damage[20].

Q. Is Soybean good for the heart?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean is considered to be good for the heart due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidants present in Soybean help fight against free radicals and prevents further heart cell damage. It also lowers the level of bad cholesterol (LDL). This promotes healthy heart functioning[19].

Q. Is Soybean good for PCOS?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean might be considered good for PCOS. It contains certain constituents (phytoestrogens) which are similar to estrogen (female sex hormone). It improves the levels of reproductive hormones and also maintains lipid profile. This helps manage symptoms of PCOS[21].

Q. Is Soybean good for sore throat?

scientific
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Soybean in sore throat. However, Soybean along with ginger has been used to manage sore throat[22].

Q. Does Soybean cause bloating?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean might cause gas or bloating. Soy contains certain constituents (phytic acid) that combines with other minerals like magnesium, calcium, iron present in the digestive tract and prevent its absorption. This makes it difficult to digest and might result in gastrointestinal problems like bloating or gas[23].

Q. Does Soybean cause infertility?

scientific
Modern Science View
Enough scientific is not available to support the role of Soybean in infertility. However, Soy contains phytoestrogens that might disrupt the normal functions of hormones in the body and might lead to fertility issues[24].

Q. Can Soybean cause weight gain?

scientific
Modern Science View
No, Soybean does not cause weight gain. In fact it might result in weight loss due to the presence of certain constituents (isoflavones) that helps improve metabolism of the body. It also lowers cholesterol levels in the body which helps manage weight[25].

Q. Does Soybean cause thyroid problems?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean oil might cause thyroid problems due to the presence of certain constituents. These constituents interferes with the normal production and utilization of thyroid hormones[26].

Q. Can Soybean cause allergies?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean might cause allergic reactions like rash, itching, etc in people who are allergic to Soybean or Soy products. So, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before using Soybean[3].

Q. Q. Is there a better way to eat Soybeans?

scientific
Modern Science View
Some experts believe that fermenting soy helps improve its digestibility and absorption in the body. This process partially breaks down soy’s sugar and protein molecules, which makes the digestion easy [31].

Q. Q. Can we eat raw soybean seeds?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
No, raw soybean should not be consumed. Soybean seeds should be properly fermented or cooked before using it as a part of the meal. Eating raw soybean seeds can cause short-term harmful effects on our digestive system because it is hard to digest and can cause some digestive problems. Soybean seeds when properly cooked can fulfill our daily requirement of protein, which is an essential element of our growth.

Q. Is Soybean good for skin?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean is good for skin as it has anti-aging property. Topical application of Soybean oil prevents skin cell damage due to the antioxidants present in it. These antioxidants improve the collagen synthesis and helps in formation of new skin cells. This improves skin tone and prevents damage[28].

Q. Is Soybean good for hair?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Soybean oil is good for hair as it is rich in high quality proteins. These proteins helps in repair and formation of new cells as well as tissues in the body including hair cells. Applying Soybean oil prevents hair loss and improves hair growth[29].

References

  1. Kanchana P, Santha ML, Raja KD.A Review on Glycine Max(L).Merr. (Soybean).2016;5(1):356-371.External Link
  2. Ahmad A, Hayat I, Arif S, et.al.Mechanisms Involved in the Therapeutic Effects of Soybean (Glycine Max).2014;17(6):1332-1354.External Link
  3. WebMD.Soy: Uses, Side effects, Interactions, Dosage [Internet]. Atlanta [last updated in 2016].External Link
  4. Chang JH, Kim MS, Kim TW, et.al.Effects of soybean supplementation on blood glucose, plasma lipid levels, and erythrocyte antioxidant enzyme activity in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.Nutr Res Pract.2008;2(3):152-157.External Link
  5. El- Sheikh NM.The Protective Effect of Soybean and Thyme on Iron Deficiency Anemia in Rats.The Egyptian Journal of Hospital Medicine.2008;33:510-520.External Link
  6. Sharmin K, Ahmed R, Momtaz A, et.al.Effect of Ethanol Extract of Glycine Max (Soy Bean) on Serum Lipid Profile of Fat-Fed Hyperlipidemic Rats. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Biochemistry.2018;10(1):21-26.External Link
  7. Uchendu IK, Onwukwe OS, Agu CE, et.al.Hypolipidaemic and renoprotective effects of Glycine max (Soy bean) against lipid profile and renal biochemical alterations in hypercholesterolemic rat.International Journal of Biomedical Research.2016;7(12):822-828.External Link
  8. Hiwatashi K, Shirakawa H, Hori K, et.al.Reduction of Blood Pressure by Soybean Saponins, Renin Inhibitors from Soybean, in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats.Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry.2010;74(11):2310-2312.External Link
  9. Gambert SR.Be Fit for Life: A Guide to Successful Aging : a Wellness, Weight Management, and Fitness Program You Can Live with.World scientific publishing Co. Pte. Ltd.2010.External Link
  10. Zheng Xi, Lee SK, Chun OK.Soy Isoflavones and Osteoporotic Bone Loss: A Review with an Emphasis on Modulation of Bone Remodeling.J Med Food.2016;19(1):1-14.External Link
  11. Shu XO, Zheng Y, Cai H, et.al.Soy Food Intake and Breast Cancer Survival.JAMA.2009;302(22):2437-2443. External Link
  12. Jalili M, Vahedi H, Janani L, et.al.Soy Isoflavones Supplementation for Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized Double Blind Clinical Trial.Middle East J Dig Dis.2015;7:170-176.External Link
  13. Dash S, Rout SP.Study of Soy (Glycine Max L Merr) on menopausal syndrome, an extra-pharmacopieal drug.Indo American journal of pharmaceutical research.2018;8(11):1395-1398.External Link
  14. Merritt JC.Metabolic syndrome: soybean foods and serum lipids.J Natl Med Assoc.2004;96(8):1032-1041.External Link
  15. Shurtleff W, Aoyagi A.History of Soybean Crushing: Soy Oil and Soybean Meal (980-2016): Extensively Annotated Bibliography and Sourcebook. Soyinfo Center.2016.External Link
  16. Christiansen BA, Bhatti S, Goudarzi R, et.al.Management of Osteoarthritis with Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables.Cartilage.2015;6(1):30-44.External Link
  17. Gupta SS, Azmi L, Shukla H, et.al.Protective effect of standardized extract of Glycine max seeds against experimentally induced gastroesophageal reflux disease in rats.Indian journal of experimental biology.2017;55:768-775.External Link
  18. Argenta DF, Silva IT, Bassani VL, et.al.Antiherpes evaluation of Soybean isoflavonoids.Springer.2015.External Link
  19. Bolla KN.Soybean consumption and health benefits.International journal of Scientific and technology research.2015;4(7):51-53.External Link
  20. Uchendu IK, Agu CE, Orji OC, et.al.Effect of Soy (Glycine max) Against Alcohol-Induced Biochemical Alteration in Liver of Male Albino Rat.Der pharma chemica.2017;9(16):115-119.External Link
  21. Khani B, Mehrabian F, Khalesi E, et.al.Effect of soy phytoestrogen on metabolic and hormonal disturbance of women with polycystic ovary syndrome.J res med Sci.2011;16(3):297-302.External Link
  22. Shurtleff W, Huang HT, Aoyagi A.History of Soybeans and Soyfoods in China and Taiwan, and in Chinese Cookbooks, Restaurants, and Chinese Work with Soyfoods Outside China (1024 BCE to 2014).Soyinfo Center.2014.External Link
  23. Quinn T, Bussell JL, Heller B.Fully Fertile: A Holistic 12-Week Plan for Optimal Fertility.Simon and Schuster.2010. External Link
  24. Lee BH.Fundamentals of Food Biotechnology.John Wiley & Sons.2014. External Link
  25. Velasquez MT, Bhathena SJ.Role of Dietary Soy Protein in Obesity.Int J Med Sci.2007;4(2):72-82.External Link
  26. Fife B.Eat Fat, Look Thin: A Safe and Natural Way to Lose Weight Permanently.Piccadilly Books, Ltd.,2005.External Link
  27. Lima SM, Bernardo BF, Yamada SS, et.al.Effects of Glycine max (L.) Merr. soy isoflavone vaginal gel on epithelium morphology and estrogen receptor expression in postmenopausal women: a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.Maturitas.2014;78(3):205-211.External Link
  28. Waqas MK, Akhtar N, Mustafa R, et.al.Dermatological and cosmeceutical benefits of Glycine max (Soybean) and its active components.Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica-drug research.2015;72(1):3-11.External Link
  29. Fonceur L.Secret of Healthy Hair: Your Complete Food & Lifestyle Guide for Healthy Hair with Season Wise Diet Plans and Hair Care Recipes.Notion press.2019.External Link
  30. Burssens S, Pertry I, Diasolua N, et.al.Soy, Human Nutrition and Health.2011.10.5772/21951.External Link
  31. Harvard TH Chan. Straight talk about soy.External Link
  32. Victoria State Government. Soybeans and soy foods. External Link
  33. USSEC. Soy nutritional content. External Link
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.

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