The vivid green soybean, edamame, has long been a mainstay in Asian cooking and is currently becoming more and more well-known across the globe. This nutrient-rich legume has a plethora of health advantages in addition to being delicious.
Nutritional powerhouse
Edamame’s remarkable nutritional profile has earned it praise. Edamame is a reasonably low-calorie food that works well with a variety of diet programs. A cup of cooked edamame has about 188 calories. It also has a high protein level, with about 18.5 g of protein per cup, which makes it a great plant-based protein source for vegans and vegetarians.
Edamame is a great source of protein as well as important vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin K, which is essential for healthy bones and blood coagulation. Significant levels of iron, magnesium, manganese, and folate are also present in it. Edamame also has a high fibre content, which helps with digestion and supports a healthy gut.
Heart health
Including edamame in your diet can help protect your heart. It contains a lot of polyunsaturated fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease. Reduced inflammation, lowered levels of harmful cholesterol, and enhanced heart health are all benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.
Additionally, isoflavones, a kind of phytoestrogen with heart-protective properties, are found in edamame. Isoflavones can further support a healthy cardiovascular system by lowering blood pressure and enhancing arterial health.
Weight management
Edamame can be a great addition to a diet for people trying to control their weight. Because of its rich protein and fibre content, it may help you feel filled for longer periods of time and less likely to overeat. Along with stabilising blood sugar levels, protein and fibre help avoid the spikes and crashes that can trigger cravings and unhealthy snacking.
Bone health
Edamame is an excellent source of many nutrients that are essential for maintaining healthy bones. Edamame’s high calcium and magnesium content is crucial to the upkeep of strong, healthy bones. Furthermore, edamame’s vitamin K promotes bone mineralisation and guards against conditions linked to bones, like osteoporosis.
Antioxidant properties
The antioxidant content of edamame is yet another amazing advantage. Rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, edamame helps shield the body from the damaging effects of free radicals and oxidative stress. These antioxidants are essential for maintaining general health and longevity as well as lowering the risk of chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease.
Hormonal balance
Edamame’s isoflavones can also help maintain hormonal balance, especially in women. Isoflavones can help reduce menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats since they imitate the effects of oestrogen on the body. In postmenopausal women, they may also promote bone health and lower the incidence of osteoporosis.
Versatility in the kitchen
Edamame is a highly adaptable food in the kitchen, in addition to its health benefits. It can be eaten as a straightforward snack by steaming it with a little salt or by combining it with other ingredients for more flavour. Additionally, edamame can be added to a range of foods, including soups, stir-fries, and salads.
