Wednesday, 10 August 2011

• The Hidden Powers of Tofu

  

  For years a vegetarian staple and highly nutritious, tofu is working it's way into mainstream diet. Hardcore meat-eaters are considering tofu products as a way to improve their diets and provide a health benefit.

  Tofu is usually off-white in color and form as an important fundamental in the cultural cuisines of Asian countries, like China and Japan. Tofu are made from bean curds of soybean milk and is primarily available in three textures: firm, extra firm, and silken.

  Silken tofu has a custard-like consistency and is usually substituted into dressings, protein shakes, and desserts. Firm and extra firm varieties are usually cut up into chunks that can be sauteed, grilled, or baked.

  To most people, tofu is bland tasting, simple looking, a texture-less blob that are eaten by vegetarians. However, if prepared properly, Tofu is one of the most versatile, flavorful, and nutritious food there is.

  You don't have to be a vegetarian to consider adding tofu to your diet. If you love savory flavors then tofu can be an exciting addition to your diet as it can absorb flavors of any ingredient and can be prepared in multiple ways with a variety of textures that can delight your taste buds.

  Health Benefits of Tofu

  

  Tofu's primary health benefits come from it's soybean base. Soybeans are very rich in protein, minerals and a plant component called isofavones which act as a form of estrogen hormones in the body.

  Tofu has high amounts of a mineral called selenium which is important for proper functioning of antioxidant system. 

  Due to its powerful antioxidant actions, selenium helps prevent the occurence of colon cancer, reduces asthma, and also aids in certain heart diseases, and the arthritic symptoms.

  Tofu and soymilk being lactose free are the most suitable substitutes for people who are lactose intolerant.

  Tofu is plentiful in calcium that's much required in maintaining your bones strong. As you get order, you will need more calcium in your body to keep your bones from going brittle and weak.

  Since tofu is high in protein, it satisfies your body's hunger for a long period of time. Also it's low-calorie nature doesn't add any extra calories to your diet.

  Consuming tofu can guide you inside your excess fat burning diet program and in maintaining your normal weight, because it only contains about 70-100 calories, nevertheless is loaded with potent nutrients.

  Everyday Foods with Tofu/Soy Content
  

  

  
  

  Miso Soup

  

  Edamame Beans

  

  Soy Milk

  

  Dou Fu Fa

  Tofu is a versatile item to work with. I personally love tofu especially for a sweet dessert and because it's light, it's simple, and it's more healthy than I've realized.

  What do you think of tofu? If so, what are some tofu/soy-based food that you've tried?

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