Soy protein is well known for its benefits in lowering cholesterol and reducing blood pressure. But a recent study led by scientists at Tulane University School of Public Health shows that soy protein supplements may also help reduce compounds associated with dysfunctional blood vessel health. This new study compounds the benefits soy protein may have on cardiovascular health.
The study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, is believed to be one of the largest randomized trials to investigate the effect of protein supplementation on different bio-markers such as inflammation and endothelial (lining of the blood vessel) dysfunction. It is also one of the most generalizable studies to date as study participants were men, women, Caucasians and African Americans.
According to the authors, “This study provides moderate support for the role of soy protein as a healthy food for cardiovascular health.”
Soy Protein and Heart Health
The cardiovascular potential of soy protein has been reported many times. Currently, the American Heart Association recommends consumption of at least 25 grams per day of soy protein with phytoestrogens, along with a low-fat diet to reduce the risk of heart disease. If you haven’t taken a closer look at soy lately, here are three reasons to fall in love with it all over again during American Heart Month.
1. Heart-Healthy, Complete Protein – Soybean protein is the only plant-based protein that provides all the essential amino acids in the amounts needed for human health. Soy is beneficial to overall cardio health because it is high in polyunsaturated (good) fats, low in saturated fat and naturally cholesterol-free. When you substitute animal protein with soy in your diet, you’re replacing saturated fats and cholesterol with a much healthier protein for your heart. In addition, soy has been shown to improve blood vessel elasticity — a measure of how “hardened” your blood vessels are.
2. Fiber + Protein = A Powerful Pair – Fiber sticks to cholesterol and prevents it from being absorbed into the body, where it could have gone on to clog your arteries. Studies have shown that a high fiber diet lowers your risk of heart disease. Plants are the only food containing fiber, essential to any healthy diet. However, most plants are low in protein. Soy is unique because it combines the benefits of fiber and protein in one healthy source.
3. Advanced Gold Standard Whey Protein – This new and improved creamy shake from Dr. Newton’s Naturals comes in either chocolate or vanilla. With a better texture and enhanced flavor, Advanced Gold Standard Whey Protein is packed with:
- A whopping 26 grams of protein per serving
- A full 2 grams of fiber per serving (FDA Good Source of Fiber)
- Powerful antioxidants found in cocoa powder (chocolate only)
- 100% of the RDA of Vitamin B in just one serving
Do your heart a favor and try Advanced Gold Standard Whey Protein to experience:
- Decreased risk of heart disease, diabetes and obesity
- Increased energy and stamina
- More permanent weight loss