Edamame are soybeans that are still in their pods. Snack traditional from Japan is now in great demand by people around the world. Not only because of the taste enjoyment, but also because there are bmany the benefits of edamame for the health of the body.
Edamame contains many nutrients. These foods contain protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, fiber, carbohydrates, folate, vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, as well as minerals, including iron, magnesium, manganese, calcium, zinc, and potassium.
Edamame soybeans have a myriad of benefits
Due to its high nutritional content, edamame has various health benefits, namely:
1. Lowering bad cholesterol levels
A study shows that consuming about 50 grams of soybeans per day can reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the body. Therefore, regular consumption of edamame soybeans can reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Reduce the risk of a number of diseases
Edamame soybeans contain isoflavones, which are antioxidants that are useful in protecting the body from various diseases, such as osteoporosis, cancer, hypertension, and heart disease. In addition, edamame soybeans are also good for maintaining blood sugar stability, so they are good for consumption by diabetics.
3. Relieves menopause symptoms
The antioxidant content of isoflavones and phytoestrogens in edamame soybeans is also useful for relieving symptoms hot flashes or the appearance of a burning sensation around the face, neck, and chest in menopausal women.
4. Healthy digestion
Another benefit of edamame is maintaining digestive tract health. A study shows that the high fiber and protein content in edamame will function as a prebiotic that can help the growth of good bacteria in the digestive tract.
5. Maintain weight
Edamame which is rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants is also good consumed as a snack to help maintain weight. Some research shows that people who regularly eat fiber foods, including soybeans and edamame, have an ideal body weight on average.
This is thought to be related to the effect of edamame which can reduce body fat, and take longer to digest so it can make you full longer.
Some of the benefits above have so far been limited to a few small-scale studies. Therefore, further research is needed to ensure the benefits of edamame for health and disease prevention.
Is that true Consumption Soy Increases Breast Cancer Risk?
There is an assumption that consuming soy, including edamame soy, may increase the risk of breast cancer. Isoflavones contained in edamame soybeans are thought to trigger an increase in the hormone estrogen which will increase the risk of malignancy in glandular cells in the breast.
In fact, this assumption cannot be justified. Evidence and research related to the increased risk of breast cancer due to consuming edamame soy is still unclear.
In contrast, soybeans actually contain protein, fiber, and isoflavones that can prevent several types of cancer. The isoflavones contained in edamame also have the ability to prevent the growth of cancer cells.
Method Healthy Enjoying Edamame
These beans can be pre-processed or combined with other vegetables to make various types of food, such as fried rice or soup. However, not infrequently edamame soybeans are enjoyed as a snack, only boiled or steamed.
You can also consume edamame soybeans that have been processed or fermented, for example in the form of tempeh, tofu, sauce, or soup. The advantage of processed soybeans is that they are easier to digest. While soybeans that have been fermented, can increase the number of good bacteria in the digestive tract.
But keep in mind, consuming edamame soybeans can make your stomach bloated and easy to pass wind. To avoid this, try cooking the edamame soybeans longer, until they are fully cooked. In addition, you also need to be careful because edamame can cause allergic reactions in some people.
To determine a healthy diet and get recommendations for the portion of edamame that suits your health condition, don't hesitate to consult a nutritionist.