Category: Soy

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), high-quality, processed soy protein can achieve the highest possible Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS) of 1.0, on par with animal proteins like milk and eggs. This means that the digestibility score of soy protein is excellent, providing all nine essential amino acids needed by the human body in easily absorbable forms.

According to Daniel Fast guidelines, the core of the fast is to eat plant-based, unprocessed foods, focusing on spiritual growth. A common question for those starting this fast is: "Can I have soy on Daniel Fast?" The answer is yes, but it requires careful attention to how the soy product is processed and prepared.

While soy curls are technically pre-cooked and dehydrated during processing, cooking them is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture. Minimally processed from whole soybeans, they require rehydration before they can properly absorb seasonings and transform from a dry, bland state into a juicy, meat-like substitute.

According to the USDA, a 100g serving of firm tofu prepared with calcium sulfate can provide over 860mg of calcium, but not all tofu is processed in the same way. The mineral content of tofu, including its calcium level, is largely determined by the coagulant used to set the soybean curd. Therefore, shoppers must learn to read labels to confirm if their product has added calcium.

The average isoflavone content in mature soybeans is 1–2 mg per gram of dry weight, making them an exceptionally rich dietary source. Soy isoflavones, which are a type of phytoestrogen, are compounds naturally found in soybeans and other legumes with a chemical structure similar to estrogen.

According to the Linus Pauling Institute, soybeans and soy products are the richest dietary sources of isoflavones, which are a class of phytoestrogens. These plant-derived compounds are similar in structure to human estrogen and are found predominantly in legumes, offering various potential health benefits.