If you replace lean meat with tofu in your diet, you may help
cut your risk of heart disease, by reducing levels of cholesterol
and other
fatty substances in your blood called triglycerides (a negative
compound formed from fatty acids),
and slowing the rate at which the body eliminates bad cholesterol.
Previous studies have shown that patients with heart disease
have higher levels of oxidized cholesterol in their blood.
The slowing rate at which cholesterol is oxidized can therefore
be associated with a decrease in coronary heart risk, or more
commonly known, heart attack. This theory is investigated
in a recent issue of The Journal of the American College
of Nutrition.
The study found that the replacement of lean meat with the
same amount of protein as tofu beneficially changes a number
of coronary heart disease risk factors. Also, estrogens found
in soy products such as tofu, may lower a person’s susceptibility
to cholesterol build-up, as they contain certain blocking
agents.
According to Dr. Madeline Ball, the main researcher, “the
overall diet to reduce heart disease should be one with appropriate
calories to achieve or maintain ideal body weight, low in
saturated fat and with good variety of foods, including plenty
of fruits and vegetables. Using soy products like tofu may
also help to reduce fat intake.”
To learn more benefits of nutrition, talk to your doctor
of chiropractic, or visit https://www.chiroweb.com/tyh/nutrients.html.
Reference:
Ashton EL, Dalais FS, Ball MJ. Effect of meat replacement
by tofu on CHD risk factors including copper induced LDL oxidation.
Journal of the American College of Nutrition 2000:19(6),
pp. 761-767.
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