Some people believe that including soybeans in the daily menu is one way to control blood sugar. So, is this method effective enough for diabetics? Check out the full explanation below.
Tracing the Benefits of Soybeans for Diabetics
Soybeans are a type of legume known as a source of vegetable protein. These nuts are also a good source of fiber, iron, magnesium and potassium. Soybeans are usually consumed in various forms, such as tempeh, tofu, and soy milk.
Apart from being a good source of protein for heart health, soybeans are also believed to be good for people with diabetes.
The reason is because these foods are low in carbohydrates and calories, and are a good source of protein and fiber. Protein and fiber are useful to help regulate blood sugar levels to remain stable.
Also Read: Rarely Realized, Here Are 11 Early Symptoms of Diabetes You Need to Watch Out for
These compounds can help reduce the risk of heart disease, cholesterol, lower blood glucose levels, and increase glucose tolerance in diabetics. However, it is best to consult a trusted dietitian or nutritionist before making any dietary changes.
Other studies have revealed that the bioactive content in soybeans, namely isoflavones, helps significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.
Furthermore, regular consumption of soy can even lower blood sugar levels and improve glucose tolerance in diabetics. Soybean is also widely known as the food with the most easily found isoflavones.
The researchers conducted experiments on rats with one of two types of isoflavones in soybeans viz daidzein. The results found that these ingredients can have a major influence on insulin, the risk of diabetes, and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Also Read: Is Sweet Soy Sauce Consumption Safe for Diabetics?
Other animal studies revealed the fact that, daidzein and type isoflavones others in soy ie equol, capable of influencing the formation of fat cells which can affect blood sugar control. This will certainly help the body control blood sugar levels better.
In the end, the benefits of soy for diabetes still require further research in humans. However, sticking to a healthy diet, especially increasing your intake of soy and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of developing diabetes.
- Anonymous. 2009. How Soy Reduces Diabetes Risk. sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091006120510.htm (Accessed January 27, 2023).
- Arnarson, Atli. 2022. Soybeans 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Effects. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/soybeans (Accessed January 27, 2023).
- Chang, Ji H et al. 2018. Effects of soybean supplementation on blood glucose, plasma lipid levels, and erythrocyte antioxidant enzyme activity in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2814190/ (Accessed January 27, 2023).
- McKelvey, Brooke. 2022. Can Soy Really Prevent Diabetes?. https://www.nutrisense.io/blog/can-soy-prevent-diabetes. (Accessed January 27, 2023).
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