How Soy Works

Soy can lowers cholesterol levels, interferes with the formation of atherosclerotic plaque, lowers fat build-up in the blood stream, and reduces the risk for coronary heart disease.

Soy has a low glycemic index which means that when digested, it stabilizes blood glucose levels. In additional, soy is also a good source of soluble fiber. Carbohydrates that are high in soluble fiber may help improve blood sugar control because it slows down the rate the body absorbs sugar. And unlike other sources of fiber, soy fiber is easily broken down in the body and thus more gentle on the digestive system.

Soy and Obesity, Heart Disease

The consumption of soy may also help fight obesity and heart disease.

Soy contains the active tetrapeptide which helps speed-up the fat decomposition process, thus aiding weight loss. Since obesity is the leading cause of diabetes, consuming soy - which helps reduce body weight may thus decrease the risk of diabetes.

A heart-healthy diet is essential for diabetics as they are at an increased risk for heart disease and atherosclerosis. In fact, cardiovascular disease occurs 2 to 4 times more frequently wit diabetics than in the general population. Research indicates that a-linolenic acid - an essential unsaturated fat found in soybeans may help to lower the risk of stroke, a deadly heart disease. Soybeans are also low in saturated fat and contain no cholesterol - both important factors for helping the heart to function properly.

Soy and Kidney Disease

Another complication of diabetes is kidney disease. Over 20% of diabetics develop impaired kidney function which can cause kidney failure.

High protein levels over a long period of time are hard on the kidneys and ultimately can lead to poor blood filtration and loss of valuable protein in the urine. Studies have shown that soy protein is significantly better at aiding renal function than animal protein. More and more dieticians are recommending that diabetics include soy protein in their diets.

Kidney disease also requires restricting phosphorus intake. A result of damaged kidneys in hyperphospatemia due to decreased glomerular filtration. This interferes with calcium balance in the body. Although soybeans contain large amounts of phosphorus, it is in the form of phytate, which is poorly absorbed.