Soy curls have a few attributes that make them a healthy plant-based protein source. They are:
- Non-GMO (genetically modified).
- Minimally processed.
- Free from preservatives, additives, and protein isolates.
- Free from added sugar, salt, and oil, unlike other meat alternatives.
- High in protein, fiber, iron, and potassium.
- Gluten-free if you have gluten sensitivities.
High in protein
Soy curls are a great source of high-quality plant-based protein. It contains all 9 essential amino acids crucial for tissue building and repair, immune function, and optimal body functioning.
A 30-gram serving of soy curls (about 1 cup rehydrated) contains approximately 10-12 grams of protein, comparable to the amount of protein found in a serving of chicken breast.
Additionally, soy protein has been shown to have potential health benefits, such as reducing cholesterol levels and lowering the risk of heart disease.
Read more:Are soy foods healthy?
Overall, soy curls can be a nutritious and satisfying protein source for people following vegetarian or vegan diets or simply wanting to incorporate more plant-based protein into their diet.
Read more:The best vegan protein sources
low in fat
Soy curls contain some fat, but they are generally low in fat compared to meat-based protein sources.
They are especially low in saturated fat, often contributing to heart disease and other health problems. Instead, soy curls contain primarily unsaturated fats, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and help to lower cholesterol levels.
The amount of fat in soy curls can vary depending on the brand and how they are prepared, but a 30-gram serving of soy curls typically contains around 5 grams of fat.
It is worth noting that some commercially produced soy products may contain added oils or fats, so it is essential to check the ingredient list and choose minimally processed soy products whenever possible.
high in fiber
Soy curls are a good source of dietary fiber, offering around 6 grams of fiber per 30-gram serving.
Fiber is one of the most crucial dietary elements that plays various roles in the body, such as promoting healthy digestion, regulating blood sugar levels, and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Fiber also helps to promote a feeling of fullness and can be beneficial for weight management.
Soy curls are particularly high in soluble fiber, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels by binding to bile acids and removing them from the body. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Nutrient-dense
Soy curls are high in essential vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and vitamin B12, all beneficial to overall health and well-being.
However, it is important to note that some people are allergic to soy or have difficulty digesting it.
Furthermore, some processed soy products may contain added salt, sugar, or preservatives or be cooked in ways that diminish their nutritional profile and benefits. Always read the label and select minimally processed soy products.
FAQs
High in protein
How healthy are soy curls? ›
In addition to protein and healthy fats, soy curls are high in fiber, containing 6 grams of fiber per serving, which can help aid in digestion and prevent constipation. They are also a good source of iron, calcium, and other essential minerals that are important for maintaining a healthy body.
Is soy protein good or bad for you? ›
Soy protein is good for lowering cholesterol levels, low-density lipoproteins (LDL or “bad” cholesterol), and triglycerides. There's no cholesterol or fat in soy protein isolate. Protein. If you're on a vegetarian or vegan diet, soy protein is a healthy way to reach your protein goals.
What are soy protein isolate's dangers? ›
Dietary supplements containing soy extracts are possibly safe when used for up to 6 months. Soy can cause some mild stomach and intestinal side effects such as constipation, bloating, and nausea. It can also cause allergic reactions involving rash, itching, and breathing problems in some people.
Are soy curls considered a whole food? ›
Soy Curls are minimally processed, and they are compliant in the Whole Food Plant Based Diet. Bonus, they are a great source of plant protein too! If you haven't tried soy curls yet, then you are totally missing out.
Are soy curls considered processed? ›
Soy Curls
These protein-packed strips are different than soy products like tofu and tempeh because they are considered minimally processed. According to Butler Foods, soy curls are made by boiling whole non-GMO soybeans in water. They contain no other additives or preservatives.
What is the healthiest soy product? ›
Choose whole soy foods like soymilk, tempeh, soy bread and tofu. Check ingredient lists to make sure the soy foods you buy are made from whole soybeans and not soy isolates. Make sure products (such as cereals) contain soy protein and not just added isoflavone.
Does soy protein cause inflammation? ›
Soy is an excellent dietary addition for patients with joint pain. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, meaning it may reduce inflammation within the body. Inflammatory chemicals attack the joint tissues, leading to more fluid in the joints and cartilage damage.
What are the damaging effects of soy? ›
The most common side effects of soy are digestive upsets, such as constipation and diarrhea. Soy may alter thyroid function in people who are deficient in iodine. Current evidence indicates that it's safe for women who have had breast cancer or who are at risk for breast cancer to eat soy foods.
Is soy protein bad for kidney disease? ›
Soy foods may be beneficial for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), dialysis patients and those with a kidney transplant as a low-saturated fat, cholesterol-free meat replacement. Similar to animal protein, soy is also a high quality protein, but is plant-based instead.
Soy curls are high in essential vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and vitamin B12, all beneficial to overall health and well-being. However, it is important to note that some people are allergic to soy or have difficulty digesting it.
What can I use instead of soy curls? ›
Soy Curl Substitute: while soy curls can be easy to find in some parts of the world, they can be very difficult to find, or very costly in other places. Soy Chunks, Soya Chunks, TVP Chunks are all basically the same thing, just in different shapes, so try looking out for these instead.
What is the difference between TVP and soy curls? ›
texture vegetable protein (TVP) While soy curls are made from whole soybeans and preserve the fiber, protein, and nutrients from the original bean, TVP is made from dehulled and defatted soybeans (i.e., the leftovers from soybean oil production).
Are soy curls healthier than tofu? ›
They're healthy. Soy curls are made from only one ingredient: whole soybeans. This means they provide fiber (6 grams per serving) and a good amount of protein (11 grams per serving, 3 more than tofu).
Are soy curls healthier than chicken? ›
Soy curls contain some fat, but they are generally low in fat compared to meat-based protein sources. They are especially low in saturated fat, often contributing to heart disease and other health problems.
What is the nutritional value of soy curls? ›
One serving of soy curls (¾ cup dry) contains 120 calories, 11g of protein, 5g of fat, 8g of carbs, 6g of fiber and 10% of the RDA for both iron and potassium.
Is it OK to eat soy products everyday? ›
Can too much soy be harmful? Numerous clinical studies have found that daily consumption of up to 50 grams of soy protein is not only safe, but may also be effective in improving risk factors for chronic disease such as some types of cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
