Soy Milk [Recipe of the Week]

Soy Milk

Get the full recipe on the Blendtec Recipes page.

Soy milk is one of many milks that people who can't, or choose not to, consume cow milk get to enjoy. Soy milk has many great benefits, including: improving your blood lipid profile, strengthening blood vessels, promoting weight loss, preventing prostate cancer, preventing postmenopausal syndromes, and preventing osteoporosis.

The fat in soy milk is mostly unsaturated and has no cholesterol. Studies have shown that regular intake of soy milk can decrease LDL, or bad cholesterol, and increase HDL, good cholesterol. Who doesn't want more good cholesterol? I know I do. Soy contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and phyto-antioxidants, which all protect your blood vessels from lesions and hemorrhage.

These nutrients also make your blood vessels more resilient to blood pressure changes. Soy milk (7g/cup) is naturally lower in sugar than cow's milk (12g/cup), and only 80 calories. It also contains quite a bit of fiber (varies depending on how much pulp there is), helping  you feel fuller longer; a great advantage to weight loss.

Man are less likely to get prostate cancer the lower their testosterone levels. Soy milk can inhibit the production of testosterone in men, due to a unique plant hormone, phytoestrogen, which is in soy milk. This same hormone is also beneficial to postmenopausal women. It can replace estrogen that women lose when going through menopause. Phytoestrogen can also prevent osteoporosis, since it accelerates calcium absorption. If you're buying soy milk, it's most beneficial if it is fortified with extra calcium and vitamin D. Reference: FitDay.com