Soya so good

A recent study suggests that a soya-rich diet can prevent diabetes, lower cholesterol and help you lose weight

It8217;s good to be full of beans8212;especially when it8217;s good old soya. New research says the boring black dal comes with a host of health benefits. It can prevent diabetes, control

cholesterol levels and help obese people lose weight.

In a study published in the Journal of Science of Food and Agriculture, a team of Korean researchers studied the effects of black soya on 32 rats. The rodents were fed a fatty diet supplemented with various levels of the bean. Two weeks later, the rats that got 10 per cent of their energy from black soya gained half as much weight as those in the control group, and their total blood cholesterol and LDL bad cholesterol levels fell by 25 per cent and 10 per cent respectively.

Researchers have also found black soya beans more effective in lowering fat and cholesterol levels as compared to the yellow ones, which help reduce weight as well. While yellow soya is the most common variety eaten across the world, black soya is used as a pulse in several parts of India and more widely used in Oriental cuisine. Soya beans are also a good source of protein.

8220;Soya is a good source of complex carbohydrates. It is low in fat and high in fibre,8221; says Dr Sakshi Chawla, chief dietician, Fortis Hospital, Delhi.

Food containing black soya also helps reduce the risk of coronary diseases. 8220;Polyphenols found in black soya beans help in lowering cholesterol. Its anti-oxidant properties help in preventing heart diseases and diabetes,8221; she says.

Soya beans also reduce the levels of harmful blood fats, stabilise blood sugar levels and help prevent cancer. 8220;Black soya beans help control cholesterol levels, prevent obesity and lower blood sugar levels,8221; says Chawla. However, the beans are not enough to stop one from developing diabetes, Chawla informs. 8220;Regular exercise and a healthy, balanced diet are also required,8221; she adds.

Soya is also a good source of iron and an excellent source of Omega 3 fatty acids. Its anti-inflammatory properties play an important role in preventing cholesterol from clogging arteries.

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8220;Soya has every nutritional benefit . It is an important source of a lot of minerals and is a nutrient-rich food,8221; says Chawla. So whether it8217;s soy milk or soya nuggets or even plain old soya dal, you can bank on the beans for good health.