Tofu: is it good or bad for you?
Soy-based protein, such as tofu and tempeh, tend to be staples in a plant-based diet, but over the years, there has been some controversy as to whether or not tofu is, in fact, good for you.
So, whether tofu has been a regular part of your diet for some time or you are just looking to figure out whether or not to include it in your diet, you’re going to want in on all these details. We’re breaking down what you need to know about tofu.
What The Research Says About Soy & Our Health
Tofu is made from condensed soy milk, so naturally, we have to determine if soy is good for us to answer the question if tofu is good or bad for us.
Here’s what the research shows.
Tofu Makes a Great Healthy Meat Swap
A study found that enjoying soy protein instead of animal protein decreased total cholesterol as well as triglycerides. This gives us one more good reason to consider enjoying more plant-based foods, like tofu over animal-based products.
Tofu May Help Promote Satiety
Another interesting study suggested that soy protein may, in fact, enhance satiety. So, adding some tofu to your plant-based meals is not only a great way to amp up the protein, but it may also help you feel more full.
Soy May Play a Role in Helping Reduce Body Fat
Some research has also suggested that a soy-based low-calorie diet lowered body fat percentage more than a non-soy-based diet. Cholesterol levels also decreased in the soy-based group.
How to Enjoy Tofu
Want to add tofu to your diet or just want to spice up how you’re currently enjoying it? The good news is that there are so many delicious ways to add tofu to your plant-based diet. And, it’s also very easy to marinate and soak up the flavors of sauces, herbs, and spices, so the sky is limit when it comes to adding tofu to some of your favorite recipes.
Here are some yummy ideas:
- Marinate in balsamic vinegar or coconut aminos and serve over a salad.
- Add silken tofu to smoothies for added creaminess.
- Add silken tofu to veggie burgers for added protein.
- Use tofu in place of meat in tacos.
As it Turns Out, Tofu Makes a Great Addition to a Plant-Based Diet
While tofu has received a bad rap over the years, it’s making a comeback as more people are turning to plant-based eating. The research also shows that tofu can make a great plant-based alternative to meat. Still not a big fan of how tofu tastes but want to enjoy more of it in your diet? Try one of Veestro’s delicious done for you meals like Eggplant Casserole or Three Layer Scramble.
