Good health comes easy with Tofu, an incredible vegan food. From maintaining your cardiovascular health to lowering the risk of anemia, cancer to promoting healthy skin and hair, tofu benefits you in numerous ways. This article shares with you everything about the food and why it is beneficial for you.
Tofu is a soy product. It is made by condensing soy milk into solid white blocks. It is believed that tofu was discovered by Chinese when nigari was accidentally added to fresh soy milk. It is a power-packed food and an excellent option for vegans. With no animal products, organic tofu is great for health as it supplies one with an abundant amount of nutrients. Further, it has a delicious flavor which makes it a part of a variety of cuisines.
Tofu has high nutritive value. It is an excellent source of proteins. It is rich in iron, copper, magnesium, phosphorous, calcium and other essential minerals. It also has zinc and potassium. In vitamins, tofu has a good amount of Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, thiamin, riboflavin, and thiamin. Tofu calories are quite low, and it provides you with organic compounds like isoflavones which are great for your health. The amount of tofu carbs and fats is low making it a healthy option.
The nutrition profile of tofu hints a lot about why tofu is a healthier choice. Here is a list of tofu benefits that will further convince you to make tofu your staple.
Maintaining cardiovascular health is one of the prime ways in which tofu benefits you. It has low amounts of saturated fats that unhealthy for your heart. Further, the content of sodium which is known to intervene with your blood pressure level is low. Thus, consuming tofu can prevent the risk of heart diseases.
Tofu has high levels of unsaturated fatty acids that are good for health. Further, it has a compound which helps in reducing the bad cholesterol in the body. Consuming tofu benefits you by increasing metabolism due to the presence of lecithin and linoleic acid that effectively aid in removal of cholesterol(1) deposits in your body.
[Read: Natural Tips to Reduce Cholesterol Levels ]
Most pregnant women suffer from morning sickness and loss of appetite. Tofu benefits them by providing an adequate amount of nutrition. Further, it is a rich source of protein which is essential for proper development of the fetus and placenta.
Women reaching menopause suffer through several issues due to the changing hormone levels in the body. Tofu benefits them by managing the symptoms during menopause. It contains isoflavones which are plant-based compounds that imitate the estrogen hormone. Thus, it helps balance the estrogen level in the body and ease symptoms like hot flashes.
Those on weight loss regime can include tofu in their diet to get significant results. Tofu provides a high amount of protein and other essential nutrients without adding many calories. Thus, it serves as an excellent low-calorie diet.
[Read: Best Remedies to Lose Weight ]
Tofu serves as a rich source of calcium which is an essential constituent of bones. Consuming tofu provides you with enough calcium that helps in strengthening bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. It prevents bone loss with age.
Tofu is a rich source of protein which plays a vital role in cell formation. With an adequate amount of protein, your skin remains healthy and beautiful with new cells to replace the dead skin cells. Further, it contains negligible amounts of saturated fats that are unhealthy for your skin. Thus, tofu serves as a rich source of vegetable protein which helps keep your skin soft and supple.
Tofu finds use in many cuisines owing to the flexibility in which it can be used. Here are the ways you can cook it.
If you love tofu or wish to add it to your diet, then here are some exciting tofu recipes that will pamper your taste buds along while providing you with a high amount of nutrition.
Tofu soup is a healthy choice for vegans.
This fermented tofu is favorite of vegetarians owing to its great taste.
Indeed tofu benefits you in numerous ways. However, it has its share of side-effects too. High intake of soy may cause:
Tofu, a soy-based food is excellent for your health and a great alternative to meat. It provides you with an adequate amount of plant-protein which benefits you in numerous ways. However, if you wish to enjoy tofu benefits maximum, then it is must that you eat it in moderation. There are countless organic tofu recipes that you can try to enjoy excellent health.
Wash the tofu and dry it. Place a kitchen towel on it place three paper towels and over them place the tofu. Wrap the paper towels and kitchen towel around tofu firmly. Put a plate over wrapped tofu and on it place heavy cans. Press it for at least an hour. It may extend to four hours.
Yes, you can freeze tofu. Freezing makes tofu chewier and increases its ability to absorb marinades.
Tofu is a staple food of many. You can eat it every day but within moderation. Eating 120 g of tofu every day is good for your health.
With high amounts of protein, fewer calories, more fiber and high amounts of calcium, iron, and magnesium, tofu is a healthier choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to chicken.