Edamame is a prepared product of immature soybeans. Although the nutrient-dense pick has been a staple in Asian countries for years, edamame has only more recently become a trendy option for health-conscious and vegan eaters throughout the whole world. Here’s a look at the major health benefits that can come from eating such a fine pick.
Looking at the health benefits of edamame
Offering protein, fiber and other nutrients
Because soy is a complete protein, edamame delivers all of the essential amino acids as well as a good amount of fiber and essential fatty acids. The plant-based pick also offers other necessary nutrients like calcium, iron and vitamin C.
Improving cardiovascular conditions
As a soy product, edamame is often consumed to help reduce cholesterol, improve blood pressure and prevent arterial diseases. The healthy pick can also be a useful staple in your weekly diet and can contribute to the prevention of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Because soy is a healthy protein with mostly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, edamame is a great alternative to fatty animal meats that aren’t helping you reach your health goals.
Providing gastrointestinal relief
The fiber-rich product can be used to help treat constipation, diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues you might have. If you haven’t been maintaining a healthy diet, suddenly introducing lots of fiber-dense products can actually increase your abdominal discomfort at first so make gradual changes to your routine, as desired, to ease into the healthy eating patterns that you ultimately want to be employing.
Preventing certain types of cancers
Edamame may be able to help prevent certain cancers including lung, thyroid, prostate, breast and endometrial cancers. Soy is also used sometimes by breast cancer patients during recovery to help expedite the process. However, the research has shown both pros and cons of soy when it comes to preventing and treating cancer so make sure you’re working with your healthcare professional to understand situation-specific recommendations.
Helping with kidney disease
For those who already suffer from kidney disease, edamame may be able to help slow down the progression of the disease so that your condition doesn’t rapidly deteriorate. Soybeans can help decrease the protein content in urine, which is a key factor for staying healthy. However, soy does contain oxalates, which can increase your chances of developing kidney stones. If you have any kidney problems, check with your doctor if edamame is something you should eat or avoid.
Strengthening bones
Soybeans are considered capable of helping prevent undesirable bone conditions such as osteoporosis. Hence, the calcium-containing food can be a great option for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Although kids and adults alike can eat soy, the natural pick may be best at increasing bone mineral density for women near the age of menopause.
Improving memory
Although the research is still sparse, edamame may actually be able to help improve your memory and reduce your risks of developing brain-related diseases later in life. Whether you’re concerned about a serious condition such as Alzheimer’s or just everyday issues with forgetting important facts, this soy-based product may be able to assist you in your health goals.
Treating pain
Soy may help treat muscle soreness, breast pain and both PMS and menopausal symptoms. Soy contains organic compounds known collectively as isoflavones, which are similar to the estrogen hormone and may even be able to help lessen your chances of getting hot flashes.
Providing an alternative for people with dietary restrictions
Even if you have trouble digesting lactose, tree nuts, gluten, corn or meat, edamame may still be a great option for your consumption. Accordingly, eating this soy pick can help you avoid the unpleasant side effects that can come from eating something that you are actually intolerant of or allergic to.
Understanding the possible consequences of eating edamame
Producing unwanted side effects for those who are sensitive to soy
Because edamame comes from the soybean plant, individuals with a sensitivity to soy should not eat edamame. People can experience the same unwanted side effects from eating edamame as from eating other soy-based products, including allergic reactions, so unfortunately this pick is not for everyone.
Creating problems from a long-term consumption of high doses
Although edamame is considered safe for most people when eaten in regular food amounts, eating extremely high doses over a long period of time may produce health risks including excess tissue growth in the uterus.
Posing unknown risks for women who are pregnant or nursing
Although edamame may be safe in food quantities during pregnancy or while you are nursing, you should avoid ingesting excessive doses of soy products during that time since high doses may be able to harm the baby’s developmental process. Always check with your healthcare professional when you have questions about what’s safe for you and your baby.
Affecting hypothyroidism negatively
Because the isoflavones in soy can act like the hormone estrogen, consuming too much soy can actually worsen some thyroid conditions. If you have any hormone or thyroid problems, check with your healthcare provider first before drastically increasing your edamame intake.
Interacting with medications and other treatments
Soy, in general, can negatively interact with certain depression medications, antibiotics, estrogen treatments and other pharmaceuticals and supplements. If you are currently taking any medications or dietary supplements, or if you have any preexisting medical conditions, make sure to discuss your particular circumstances with a trusted professional so you understand the risks of upping your soy levels.
Finding an edamame product that suits your preferences
As desired, you can buy bags of frozen edamame that have either been shelled or preserved in pods. These frozen options are perfect for using in various dishes including salads, soups and pastas. You can also pick up dry roasted packs of edamame for on-the-go snacking. If you really love this soy-based option, you may also be interested in picking up edamame-centered trail mixes and chocolate bars. Always read the nutrition labels, however, so you make sure to grab products that are in line with your dietary goals. Just because an item has edamame in it doesn’t mean the overall product is healthy and good for you.
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