High in protein made from soybeans, and isoflavones increase bone density
Korea is known to be the only country that grows and eats soybeans as vegetables. Our ancestors supplemented vitamin C with bean sprouts during the winter when fresh vegetables and fruits were scarce. The effect of protein, which is good for muscles, was recognized early enough to be called ‘meat in the field’. Due to the overflow of processed foods such as bread, the number of people who eat bean sprout soup in the morning is decreasing. Let’s find out more regarding the health effects of bean sprouts.
◆ Representative food made from soybeans… It is also used as medicine for its excellent health effects.
Representative foods using beans (soybeans) include bean sprouts, tofu, and soybean paste. Bean sprouts are relatively easy to grow and have a short growing period. Not to mention the low price. It is also excellent in health effects, and it is described in ‘Hyangyakgugeupbang’ published during the Goryeo Dynasty that dried bean sprouts are used as a medicine called ‘soybean hwang (大豆黃)’ (National Institute of Agricultural Sciences). It served as a health guard with winter vegetables.
◆ Protect muscles and maintain bone density… Why it’s especially good for middle-aged women
Soybeans are composed of 40% protein, 30% carbohydrates, and 20% fat, so they have a high protein content. If you are over 40, it helps to maintain the muscle that naturally decreases. Soy protein has antihypertensive peptides that interfere with its ability to raise blood pressure. Since there are few sulfur-containing amino acids, the excretion of salt through the kidneys is reduced, preventing calcium loss. Isoflavones contribute to the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis by increasing bone density and strengthening bones.
◆ Biosynthesis of vitamin C, which was not found in soybeans… Increased protein digestibility
In bean sprouts, the content of lipids, lutein, and beta-carotene decreases during germination, but vitamin C, which was not present in beans, is biosynthesized. Digestion and absorption of protein and starch are also increased. Bean sprouts are rich in aspartic acid and fiber, which helps relieve hangovers. Because of its low caloric value, it is also used as a weighty ingredient to increase volume in other dishes.
◆ Easy breakfast available… If you make it the day before, just warm it up.
These days, it is not uncommon to have breakfast with bread or toast containing various additives, or jam with a lot of sugar. Processed foods on an empty stomach in the morning are not good. Some people eat bread because it is easy to prepare. In the morning when the stomach is sensitive, natural food is the best.
If you make bean sprout soup the day before, you just need to reheat it. It is a highly efficient food that can also save time. Adding tofu to bean sprout soup or adding multigrain rice adds more nutrients. It is important not to make it too salty. If you add a boiled egg or a few vegetables the day before, it’s an impeccable breakfast.