Soy protein powder has been used for centuries in Asia as a nutritional source of protein and also as a medicine. The first use of soy formula in the United States was in 1909 when the soy protein based formulas used soy flour, which often caused gastrointestinal problems. In mid 1960, a soy protein isolate was used, reducing gastrointestinal problems. In October 1999, products containing soy became very popular when the U.S. Federal Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) approved manufacturers to label soy protein products as helping to reduce the risk of heart disease . The structure of soy protein most closely resembles that of meat protein and therefore can provide an important meat substitute for vegetarians and those individuals wishing to regulate meat consumption.
Soy is rated as the second most allergenic food to humans, with the first being peanuts. Although compounds in soy products have been likened to very weak female hormones, they have no adverse effects on men and may actually help them prevent cancer. Soybean protein is a " complete protein " since it provides all of the essential amino acids for human nutrition.
It is a great supplement for those wishing to lose weight. By consuming soy protein rather than animal protein, fat and sugar consumption could be restricted. Athletes and body builders find great benefit in soy powder to boost the protein intake while controlling both fat and sugar and removing some of the drawbacks of other protein powders such as gas and bloating. Soy protein has been shown to raise thyroid hormone output which could be a real advantage to bodybuilders trying to shed some fat. The intake of various high quality proteins has been associated with higher levels of thyroid hormone, but soy appears to have thyroid hormone raising abilities unique to that of other proteins. Though some research has shown changes in T3 and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), the real effect appears to be with T4 which is elevated consistently in the studies done using animals-and to a lesser degree people-eating soy proteins. Also, some studies have found changes in the insulin/glucagon ratio that would favor reductions in cholesterol and possibly bodyfat. At this time, exactly how soy proteins have this effect on thyroid output is not well understood, but their working on it.
As a "complete protein", meaning that it provides all of the amino acids that cannot be manufactured by the body. There are actually 20 amino acids needed for biologic processes but only eleven can be manufactured by the human body. The remaining 9 amino acids must be consumed in the diet. Several individuals today wish to eat a largely plant based diet but many plants do not have all of the necessary amino acids, leaving many deficient in necessary building blocks of cells, tissues and organs.
Soy protein powder can provide a large amount of non-animal protein and the body will absorb basically all of it. It is also almost completely fat free. Soy protein is very low in lactose and cholesterol and for those who follow a vegetarian lifestyle they can use it to replace meat. It can also be used as a flour substitute. Soy Protein Powder contains three important components which are Isoflavones, Saponins and Phytosterols. Saponins are important in building the immune system as well as reducing the amount of cholesterol that the body absorbs. Phytosterols aid in controlling the cholesterol levels in the body as well as balancing cholesterol levels in the body. Isoflavones are considered powerful antioxidants and provide several health benefits for women and men.