6 myths and truths about isolated soy protein –

Recently, several studies have analyzed the benefits that isolated soy protein can offer to health, and the results have shown that this substance can really help our body. With that, some suspicions about the safety of this ingredient were left aside.

Next, the Nataniel Viuniskia nutrition specialist specializing in obesity and a member of the Advisory Board of Herbalife Nutrition do Brasil, comments on the main doubts about isolated soy protein.

1

It is considered a low quality protein.

Myth. It is the only vegetable protein that has all the essential amino acids, which are responsible for the formation and maintenance of muscle mass and for other body functions.

This means that it is considered of high biological value and can be compared with milk proteins (casein and whey protein) and egg proteins (albumin) in terms of their nutritional value and digestibility.

With at least 90% protein, protein isolate is its purest form. Because it has a small amount of carbohydrates, fats and other components that can disturb its absorption, it is very well digested and used by the body, according to Nataniel.

two

Helps with cardiovascular health.

True. As isolated soy protein is of vegetable origin, it does not contain animal fat, that is, cholesterol. In fact, studies indicate that this ingredient can be useful for reducing total cholesterol, LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and triglyceride levels.

“This plant protein also improves sensitivity to insulin (the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar), contributing to metabolic health,” adds the nutrologist.

3

It is an ally for weight loss.

True. Like other high-quality proteins, this plant-based protein also helps promote feelings of fullness. Therefore, it is classified as a great ally for weight loss and is usually part of the composition of nutritious shakes indicated for weight control, such as those from Herbalife Nutrition.

“Studies also show that, in diets rich in protein, it favors weight reduction, preservation of muscle mass and greater loss of abdominal fat when compared to animal protein. Among the various factors, also because it regulates insulin better”, explains Viuniski.

4

It hurts the intestine

Myth.

According to recent research, isolated soy protein contributes to the increase of “good” bacteria, bringing a series of benefits to the intestinal microbiota and to the health of that organ.

This is possible due to its participation in the metabolism of short-chain fatty acids that help preserve the integrity of the intestinal barrier, making it difficult to absorb toxins that cause disease and collaborating to improve the immune system.

5

It causes hormonal changes in men.

Myth. Clinical studies have shown that isolated soy protein and soy itself are incapable of causing such changes. “By the way, both children and adults of both sexes can consume them without any problems. Several infant formulas include isolated soy protein as an ingredient”, says the nutrologist.

6

It’s more sustainable.

True. Did you know that producing one kilogram of beef produces 178kg1 of carbon dioxide? Meanwhile, producing the same amount of isolated soy protein generates 2.4 kg.

Regarding water consumption, it is worth mentioning that 1,600 liters are needed to obtain a kilogram of poco or beef and 38 liters to make the same amount of this vegetable protein 2.

References:

1Thrane M et al. (2017). I am protein: Impacts, Production, and Applications. In: Sudarshan R, Wanasundara and Scanlin (2017). Sustainable protein Sources, Elsevier.

2Muñoz and Schmidt, 2015. Life Cycle Screening of Animal and Vegetable derived protein Sources. Prepared by 2-0 LCA Consultants for IFF Nutrition Biosciences ApS.