Soy is a protein derived from soybeans, which belongs to the legume family. It has zero cholesterol and low saturated fats. Soy is also a good source of fiber, iron, calcium, zinc, and vitamin B. All these nutrients are necessary to strengthen the immune system.
Soy can be processed into different types of food products. We can get soy milk, soy flour, soy powder, soy chunks, tempeh, miso, tofu, soy sauce, whipped soy toppings, soy nut butter, soy cheese, meat alternatives, soy yogurt, soy ice-cream, and many other retail food products from it.
Soy acts as a superfood for the kids. It is highly recommended that as a parent, you should provide Soy to your kid only after consulting a physician.
It should be avoided or given in lesser quantities if they show allergy signs when consuming any such food items. The reaction can also be seen in kids if they are allergic to any of the protein present in Soy.
The immune system protects the body from infections and as the body reacts to the protein, the immune system tries to discard it from the body. These changes in the body cause allergic reactions to occur.
Soy allergies are rarely found in kids, and if they develop any such reactions, they are likely to go away at 10-12 years of age.
Kids should always be given a balanced diet for their healthy growth and development. They should get the following necessary nutrients every day:-
Protein-Protein helps in building body cells. It maintains and replaces the tissues in our bodies. Soy and soy products are a rich source of protein.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an essential source of energy. It helps the body to use fat and protein for building and repairing damaged tissues. Cereal is a good source of carbohydrates. Some cereals also contain soy as an ingredient.
Fats
Fats act as the fuel needed for a body to function well. The body uses the fats present in the foods to build nerve tissue and hormones. Kids should have a diet with 30% of the nutrients coming from healthy fats. Soy cooking oil, tofu, and soy cheese are some of the soy products that can provide the body with the needed fats.
Calcium
Calcium helps build stronger and healthier bones as well as teeth. Parents are advised to give their kids 2-3 servings of calcium every day. Tofu, a by-product of Soy is a very good source of calcium.
Iron
Iron gives the blood the strength to carry oxygen to cells all over the body. Kids need about 8-10 milligrams of iron every day. Soya beans and foods derived from soybeans are rich in iron.
Folate-B
These are the vitamins that help in the healthy growth and development of cells. Soy milk and tempeh give the body the necessary B vitamin.
Fiber
It reduces the chances of heart disease and cancer later in life. Kids need about 15-20 grams of fiber every day. Edamame, black soybeans, soy flour are some of the soy-products rich in fiber.
Vitamin A
It helps prevent infections in the body. Tofu gives the body the needed Vitamin A.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C strengthens the walls of blood vessels. Soybeans are high in vitamin C.
Based on the nutrient profile, Soy and soy products are a powerhouse of all the nutrients necessary for kids daily. They are rich in amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids as well.
Studies showed that the regular consumption of soy and related products during childhood could reduce the risk of breast cancer in adulthood. It has also been found that Soy lowers bad “LDL” cholesterol levels. It helps in building a healthy heart and protecting it as well.
Parents are advised to give their kids one serving of Soy or any soy products per day. Foods are beneficial only when consumed moderately. Excessive consumption of any food can have harmful effects on the body.
There is a cause of concern among the parents because of the presence of isoflavones(a plant-based Estrogen) in Soy. It is said that isoflavones can have negative effects on the kids in their later years. But there is no scientific support regarding those claims.
This was all we had regarding the contribution of Soy in your kid’s life. Hope you liked going through it.
Reference:
https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/
https://www.onegreenplanet.org/