As we all grapple with the aftermath of an emerging pandemic, along with other global health concerns and the stress of everyday life, the need to maintain good health becomes stronger. stronger than ever. One of the key factors that play an important role in managing one’s health is gut health. In addition to serving as a major portal for the absorption and processing of nutrients, the gut also affects the nervous and immune systems, and impacts mental health and digestive function. Recent studies show that gut health affects literally everything inside the body; Therefore, it is imperative to maintain good gut health – the trillions of bacteria that live in the microbiome – at all times.
Also Read: Period Cramps, Stomach Pains – 3 Expert Diet Tips That May Help
Both good and bad bacteria exist in the microbiome and have a symbiotic relationship with the body for the body to function properly, in addition to preventing the possibility of metabolic diseases. Therefore, the diversity of the microbiome is important and a person’s diet plays an important role in maintaining this balance.
Recent studies have shown that soy foods have a significant positive effect on the gut microbiota. One of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids, soy foods are gaining popularity these days – not only for their many health benefits, but also for their positive health effects. intestinal tract.
It has been observed that the consumption of soy foods can increase the levels of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli – a group of probiotic bacteria commonly found in the digestive system, thereby altering the ratio between Firmicutes and Firmicutes. and Bacteroidetes, and maintain microbial balance. These changes in the microbiome then help reduce the population of pathogenic bacteria in the gut and assist in reducing the risk of diseases such as immune deficiencies, allergies, obesity, diabetes, cancer and other diseases. heart-related diseaes.
One soy-based food that is said to be good for gut health is soy milk. Some gut bacteria have the ability to utilize the nutrients in soy milk and change the composition of the microbiome favorably. For people with high lactose intolerance or inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS), soy milk is a good alternative to dairy products and can help reduce inflammation and intestinal irritation.
Tofu, another protein-rich soy by-product, is also known to provide both gut bacteria, prebiotics, and prebiotics. While the high protein content in soybeans serves as a source of energy and nitrogen for gut bacteria, the oligosaccharides and fiber content in soybeans are known to have prebiotic properties. Furthermore, some soy-fermented foods, such as soy milk, tofu, soy sauce, and even soy sauce, are known to have health-promoting effects that are enhanced by the fermentation process. ferment. Food fermentation uses microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast or both; These not only change the nutritional value of foods, improve the digestibility of foods, but also make them a good source of money and prebiotics. This in turn adds to the food’s anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory properties, while improving gastrointestinal health and the immune system.
In addition to their comprehensive impact on overall gut health and high protein content, soybeans are an excellent source of Vitamin C, folate, calcium, fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium – all of which contain low in saturated fat and carbohydrates. It is also known for its isoflavones content, which may have strong antioxidant properties.
With countless benefits that directly impact gut health in addition to its high nutritional content, it’s no surprise that soy is considered a superfood these days. In keeping with Hippocrates’ immortal saying – “Let food be your medicine and medicine your food” – make sure to include soy foods in your diet for a healthy gut. fun and a healthy body.
About the Author: Dr Aalika Banerji Shah is a medical nutritionist, esthetician and a supporter of the ‘Right to Protein’ initiative.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability or validity of any information contained in this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not bear any similar liability.
