Soy products are all around us. There is soy milk, soy cheese, and tofu. But should you consider adding some soy to your diet?
Soy is a plant-based protein and it includes all of the essential amino acids. It's also very high in calcium, zinc, and magnesium.
Edamame is a green vegetable more commonly known as immature soybeans. Although edamame can be eaten on it's own, the beans can be used in many different ways after they mature.
Because of it's calcium content, many soy products benefit our bones. Studies have also linked it to prostate cancer prevention and it may help alleviate "hot flashes" in some menopausal women.
And it's easier to work soy into your diet than you might think.
"In the morning, try replacing your cow milk with soy milk or for lunch, add a soy yogurt," says Tara Harwood, a Registered Dietician with Cleveland Clinic. "And with your snacks you can try having edamame as a snack or maybe some soy cheese, or for dinner, including soy protein in the form of tofu."
Harwood says tofu is relatively easy to prepare. She says you can sautee it in a pan with some olive oil and throw on some of your favorite spices.
