Benefits of tofu for health
Tofu is a product made from soybeans. It has high nutritional value, containing a lot of protein, calcium, potassium, vitamin E, flavonoids, and stigmasterol that are essential for the body.
Tofu and other soy-based products have been shown to reduce the risk of age-related mental disorders.
In addition, tofu is high in fiber, cholesterol-free, and low in saturated fat, which is good for cardiovascular health.
This type of food has also been shown to support bone health.
People with diabetes can use tofu as a meat substitute to supplement protein in their diet.
However, there are some groups of people for whom consuming too much tofu is not good for their health.
People who should not eat tofu
– People with digestive problems
Tofu has a high content of vegetable protein. Eating too much can interfere with the body’s iron absorption process. The body also becomes overwhelmed with breaking down a large amount of protein.
People with digestive problems may experience difficulties in nutrient absorption, leading to indigestion, bloating, diarrhea, and other discomforting symptoms.
– People with gastric inflammation
Due to the high amount of vegetable protein in tofu, consuming excessive amounts can increase the production of stomach acid, causing a feeling of fullness, discomfort, and even severe abdominal pain.
– People with heart disease
People with heart disease should limit their intake of tofu. This type of food contains a large amount of methionine. Under the action of enzymes, this substance will be converted into cysteine, damaging the inner layer of arterial walls, causing platelet aggregation, depositing neutral fats and cholesterol in the arterial walls, leading to atherosclerosis and aggravating the condition.
– People with thyroid dysfunction
Tofu contains a high amount of isoflavones. People with thyroid dysfunction who absorb a large amount of these substances will inhibit peroxidase, an enzyme that aids in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, making the condition of thyroid dysfunction worse.
– People with gout
Those who have gout and consume a lot of tofu (and other soy-based products) will increase the level of uric acid in the blood, making the condition more severe.