Soy milk, unsweetened, plain, shelf stable

Basic Information:

• Common Name: Soy Milk
• Scientific Name: Glycine max (soybean is the base ingredient)
• Category: Plant-based milk
• Varieties: Soy milk can be categorized into sweetened, unsweetened, flavored (such as vanilla or chocolate), and fortified (with added vitamins and minerals).

Nutritional Information:

• Macronutrients (per 100 grams):
• Carbohydrates: 1.29 grams
• Proteins: 3.55 grams
• Fats: 2.12 grams
• Saturated Fat: 0.21 grams
• Monounsaturated Fat: 0.36 grams
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.93 grams
• Micronutrients:
• Vitamins:
• Vitamin D: 1.1 µg (6% DV)
• Vitamin B12: 0.4 µg (17% DV)
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): 0.18 mg (14% DV)
• Folate: 18 µg (5% DV)
• Minerals:
• Calcium: 123 mg (9% DV)
• Magnesium: 15 mg (4% DV)
• Phosphorus: 45 mg (6% DV)
• Potassium: 118 mg (3% DV)
• Sodium: 47 mg (2% DV)
• Iron: 0.54 mg (3% DV)

Phytonutrients

Soy milk contains a variety of phytonutrients that contribute to its numerous health benefits. Below is a detailed list of these phytonutrients and their respective health benefits:

• Isoflavones:
• Genistein: An antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce the risk of certain cancers, supports heart health, and improves bone health.
• Daidzein: Another potent isoflavone with antioxidant properties that aid in cardiovascular health, enhance bone density, and may alleviate menopausal symptoms.
• Glycitein: A minor isoflavone contributing to the antioxidant and estrogenic effects of soy, offering similar benefits as genistein and daidzein.
• Saponins:
• These compounds possess immune-boosting effects, cholesterol-lowering properties, and potential anticancer activity.
• Phytosterols:
• Beta-sitosterol: Helps lower cholesterol levels, supports prostate health, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Campesterol: Works alongside beta-sitosterol to reduce cholesterol and has anti-inflammatory effects.
• Stigmasterol: Reduces cholesterol levels and supports cardiovascular health.
• Phenolic Acids:
• Ferulic Acid: An antioxidant that protects cells from damage caused by free radicals, supports skin health, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• P-Coumaric Acid: Another antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Flavonoids:
• Kaempferol: Known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
• Quercetin: A powerful antioxidant that reduces inflammation, supports cardiovascular health, and boosts the immune system.

Health Benefits of Phytonutrients in Soy Milk

• Antioxidant Protection:
• Isoflavones (genistein, daidzein), phenolic acids (ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid), and flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin) help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• Anti-inflammatory Effects:
• Many phytonutrients, including isoflavones, phytosterols, and flavonoids, reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for managing chronic conditions such as arthritis and heart disease.
• Heart Health:
• Phytosterols (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol) and isoflavones help lower cholesterol levels and protect cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function and reducing arterial stiffness.
• Cancer Prevention:
• Some phytonutrients, such as genistein, daidzein, kaempferol, and quercetin, have anticancer properties, potentially reducing the risk of certain types of cancer by inhibiting cancer cell growth and proliferation.
• Bone Health:
• Isoflavones like genistein and daidzein support bone health by improving bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis, particularly in postmenopausal women.
• Hormonal Balance:
• Isoflavones have estrogenic properties that help balance hormones, particularly in postmenopausal women, and may reduce symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and night sweats.
• Immune Support:
• Compounds like saponins and quercetin boost immune function, helping the body to fight off infections and diseases by enhancing the activity of immune cells.

Summary

Unsweetened, plain, shelf-stable soy milk is rich in a variety of phytonutrients, including isoflavones (genistein, daidzein, glycitein), saponins, phytosterols (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol), phenolic acids (ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid), and flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin). These compounds provide numerous health benefits, such as antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory effects, heart health support, cancer prevention, bone health improvement, hormonal balance, and immune support. Including soy milk in your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being due to its rich phytonutrient profile.

Calorie Count and Glycemic Index

• Calorie Count: Approximately 38 calories
• Glycemic Index: Low

Physical Characteristics:

• Color: Creamy white to light beige
• Shape: Liquid
• Size: N/A (as it is a liquid)
• Texture: Smooth and creamy

Culinary Uses:

• Common Dishes: Can be consumed on its own as a beverage, used in cereals, smoothies, coffee, tea, and as a milk substitute in baking and cooking.
• Preparation Methods: Typically consumed chilled or at room temperature. Can be frothed for coffee or heated for hot beverages and recipes.
• Suitable Pairings: Pairs well with cereals, fruits, coffee, tea, baked goods, and savory dishes such as soups and sauces.

Geographical Information:

• Origin: Soybeans are native to East Asia, specifically China.
• Primary Growing Regions: Major producers of soybeans include the United States, Brazil, Argentina, China, and India. Soy milk production is widespread globally.
• Seasonal Availability: Available year-round due to its production and distribution process.