Benefits of Non-GMO Soybeans: The Superfood You Need In Your Diet

Let’s just come right out and say it: There’s very likely a place for non-GMO soybeans in every person’s diet. Whether you’re looking to set your lifestyle on a more nutritious and healthier path or are simply searching for an alternative to dairy products, soy is one superfood that needs to make your grocery shopping list.

The soybeans that carry this sometimes unheralded superfood can be used to make so many meals and snacks that are much healthier for you and your household. Soy milk, tofu, sprouts, roasted or toasted soybeans – we could go on and on (and we’ve got some of our favorite non-GMO soybean recipes on our blog to prove that we could!).

What are non-GMO Soybeans?

When it comes to soybeans, though, there are typically two options: genetically modified (GMO) and non-GMO. GMO soybeans are prevalent in many uses, but especially for livestock feed, although some farmers and producers are making switches to non-GMO soybeans for their livestock.

Why people prefer non-GMO soybeans

When it comes to human consumption, though, that’s where non-GMO soybeans shine. Not to mention non-GMO, vegan-endorsed, Iowa-grown soybeans happen to be our forte. Although they may take a little more work to grow because they haven’t been genetically modified to resist many pesticides and herbicides, the payoff is clear from the many flavor and health benefits.

Then there is the fact that one study shows that non-GMO soybeans are in fact superior to GMO soybeans when producing food products. The study’s authors focused on tofu – one of our customers’ favorite ways to use Laura Soybeans – but the same could be said of any of the other byproducts we previously mentioned, including soy milk.

But let’s get to the findings. For this study, the researchers compared tofu that had been made with non-GMO soybeans to tofu that was made with GMO soybeans.

They found tofu made with non-GMO soybeans had:

• Better yield
• Higher protein content
• Lower water content
• A more savory smell
• Better color
• Better texture

What’s not to love about having each of those qualities stand out with tofu? That savory smell and flavor, plus the unique texture, makes tofu a great addition to many home recipes, including any recipe that you could use a meat substitute or some additional protein.

This is what makes soy a superfood

Tremendous protein content isn’t soy’s only quality that has health nuts and clean eating buffs in its corner. There are so many great benefits to eating soy that it truly is a superfood that everyone should consider adding to their diet.

High protein

But let’s start with the protein. Anybody who leads an active, healthy lifestyle should know why protein is so critical. It’s the fuel of the body. While many people find their protein in meat, soy is a worthy substitute.

Soy’s high protein content makes it a staple for many vegetarian and vegan diets because it becomes a meat replacement that is both filling and healthier overall. Soy is unlike other plant protein sources because it has all nine essential amino acids that our bodies use to build stronger bones and healthier muscles.

Less bad fats, more good fats

Here’s another advantage soy has over meat: It contains much less saturated fat. That’s fantastic news for anyone who needs to watch their heart health.

Of the total fat in non-GMO soybeans, only about 10% to 15% is saturated. There is much more unhealthy fat in most other meats, making soybeans a better option for a better functioning heart.

And that’s not all. Soy is not fat free, but it does contain fats that are actually beneficial for those who keep a close watch on what they eat. The majority of fats in soy are polyunsaturated, such as omega-6 and omega-3 fats. Some folks find these in seeds, fish and vegetable oils. According to WebMD, these can be good for many people’s hearts and could lessen their risk of some diseases.

No cholesterol

While we’re on the topic of your body’s ticker, the heart, we should also mention that there is zero cholesterol in soy and soy foods. As a natural cholesterol-free food, consuming more soy could actually help you decrease your levels of LDL cholesterol.

High fiber

Pair the zero cholesterol with high amounts of fiber in soy and you could find that you may absorb less cholesterol from the other foods you eat. Plus, fiber helps with digestive health and keeps you feeling full for longer periods of time.

Isoflavones

Now here’s what makes soy special. Soy contains a common plant chemical that is known as isoflavones. These isoflavones in soy have shown to be helpful in maintaining stronger bones in women who are experiencing menopause.

Rich in vitamins and minerals

If all of those benefits still haven’t convinced you to give our favorite superfood a shot, then consider that soy has loads of other incredibly beneficial vitamins and minerals that need to be included in all balanced diets.

Here’s a quick rundown of what else is in soy and the health benefits of each:

• Vitamin K helps with proper blood clotting
• Folate, known as vitamin B9 is considered very beneficial during pregnancy
• Copper can help with heart health
• Thiamine, or vitamin B1, helps support many of the body’s functions

Try this superfood for yourself

So, now you have all the information you need to see why adding more soy to your diet could be a major benefit to your health.

Don’t just take our word for it, though. The best part about that study we mentioned above that shows tofu from non-GMO soybeans is simply better than GMO is that it’s easily recreated right in the comfort of your home. In fact, we have plenty of recipes, and of course the soybeans, for making DIY tofu in your own kitchen.

Trust us, the results will be fantastic. We’re confident that with tofu, soy milk and other products made from Laura Soybeans, you’ll have a household full of soy fans in no time.

Now, time to stock up and shop our selection of non-GMO soybeans.