As a source of protein, there are so many benefits of tofu that can be obtained. Not only protein, various other nutritional content in it is also known to be good for health, from maintaining bone strength to preventing cancer.
Tofu is processed soybeans that are thawed and thickened. Based on the texture, tofu can be divided into solid tofu, soft tofu, and silken tofu.
However, these three types of tofu have almost the same nutritional content. However, tofu with a dense texture has more calories and nutrients in it than tofu with a soft texture.
Apart from being a source of protein, tofu also contains a variety of nutrients, such as carbohydrates, fiber, and fat. The content of essential amino acids and various minerals, such as calcium, selenium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron, can also be found in tofu.
Various Benefits of Tofu for Health
After knowing the nutritional content in it, do not be surprised if tofu can provide many health benefits. The following are some of the benefits of tofu that can be obtained:
1. Control blood sugar
Tofu contains isoflavones derived from the main raw material, namely soybeans. A study showed that the content of isoflavones in soybeans can lower blood sugar levels and keep it stable.
Therefore, tofu is a good food consumed by diabetics. However, the link between tofu consumption and lowering blood sugar levels still requires further research.
2. Increase bone strength
Besides being believed to control blood sugar, the isoflavones in tofu are also believed to be useful for increasing bone strength.
A study states that isoflavones can increase bone density, thereby reducing the risk of developing osteoporosis, especially in women who have just entered menopause. Not only that, tofu is also rich in calcium which is good for maintaining bone health.
3. Maintain brain function and health
Eating tofu is known to be good for maintaining brain health and function. This benefit comes from the content of isoflavones andlecithin in tofu which can improve memory and concentration, especially in the elderly.
4. Lowering cholesterol levels
Eating foods rich in protein, including tofu, is believed to reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. Thus, the benefits of this tofu are good for preventing the buildup of cholesterol in the blood vessels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis.
5. Inhibit the growth of cancer cells
Tofu contains isoflavones and antioxidants that are believed to inhibit the growth of several cancer cells, such as prostate cancer, colon cancer, and breast cancer.
In addition to some of the benefits above, tofu is also known as a source of iron, so it can maintain the production of red blood cells in the body and prevent anemia.
Recipe Cuisine of Tofu
To get the various benefits of tofu above, you can process it according to taste. One of the menus that you can try is Pepes Tahu. Here are the ingredients and how to cook it:
Ingredients
- 6 medium size white tofu
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2 Spring onions
- 2 eggs
- 1.5 teaspoons pepper powder
- Green onions
- Adequate basil leaves
- Salt to taste
- Sugar to taste
- Banana leaf
How to cook
- Puree the onion and garlic.
- Thinly slice the onions.
- Mash the tofu, then add the minced garlic and onion.
- Add the scallions, basil leaves, salt, sugar, and eggs to the tofu mixture that has been crushed.
- Mix all the ingredients together until well blended and wrap in banana leaves.
- Steam for about 20 minutes.
- Lift and Pepes tofu is ready to be served.
Not only delicious or easy to process, you can also get various health benefits of tofu. However, if you have certain conditions or experience an allergic reaction after consuming tofu, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.