Soy Foods--Healthy Nutrition

Hi Ladies, I would like to suggest you consider healthy nutrition with soy foods. Move to a healthier you--Go lean on protein. Soy provides lean protein and is a good carb.

Gradually you can substitute soy for fatty meat protein. You will be glad you did; and if you substitute splenda for sugar you will be amazed at your gradual weight loss. Try drinking something like sugar free Crystal Light for part of the 8 glasses of water we need daily--even more gradual weight loss!

How about moving your body a little more every day? Do something, anything that's physical and causes even a little perspiration. Oh my goodness! Your cholesterol gets lower and your midriff is a tad smaller. Wow.

(By the way I too have made these substitutions which are necessary for a healthier me.)

Here are some soy food ideas to consider:

(MEATS & BEANS)

Vary your choices with more beans, peas, nuts, and seeds.Tofu, tempeh, soy nuts, soy nut butter, soybeans, and soy meat alternatives (i.e., soy burgers or soy crumbles), are rich in high quality, lean protein, low in total fat and saturated fat, and cholesterol free.

Soy foods are excellent for weight control, heart disease prevention and for healthy alternatives to meat and dairy products. Combined with more physical activity, making wiser food choices each day affects your health and how you feel today, tomorrow, and in the future.

Get your calcium-rich foods. (DAIRY )

Vary your vegetables. Eat more dry beans and peas; whole soybeans, such as steamed edamame or cooked (canned).

If you don't or can't consume milk, choose lactose-free or other calcium sources. Calcium-fortified soy milk is excellent for everyone's health. Simple tips on using soy help consumers make changes today to move towards better health tomorrow. Soy milk is rich in calcium, vitamins D and A, magnesium and potassium.

Soy dairy alternatives, such as soy slices, soy yogurt, and frozen soy desserts, are also generally low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and calories, and may be calcium-fortified (check the label).

Soybeans or soy nuts are rich in fiber, potassium, folic acid, iron, and other vitamins and minerals. (I snack on soy nuts frequently and noticed kids and adults were asking to try some. They look like peanuts somewhat and quite tasty).

Soy foods appeal to your taste buds - as well as your waistline!

Know your fats. (OILS) Make most of your fat sources from nuts, and vegetable oils. Soybean oil is low in saturated fat and high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Soybean oil is flavor free and works well in all kinds of cooking and baking. Soy nuts and soy nut butter provide high-quality protein, polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids along with fiber, potassium, folic acid, and iron.

The 2005 USDA/DHHS Dietary Guidelines for Americans ask everyone to make specific changes to reduce weight and improve health. The USDA food guidance plan, MyPyramid, provides food ideas and menus to meet nutrient and energy needs based on lifestyle habits.

Make half your grains whole grains. (GRAINS) Choose whole grains as part of an overall healthy diet. Whole grain products with added soy protein such as, soy cereal, pasta, bread, muffins, grits, and you can enhance your daily fiber intake.

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