It’s no secret that protein is one of the most important micronutrients the body needs for healthy aging, but for most aging people, it’s still unclear which sources they should get protein from, and whether or not all sources are created equal. As consumer concerns about food safety and nutrition drive buying decisions, manufacturers need effective food and nutrition solutions to enhance their daily nutrition requirement, safety and quality of food.
With a population of 1.2 billion, a burgeoning middle class, increasing threats to the safety of the food supply and the growing prevalence of diabetes, obesity and undernourishment, India need the right food and nutrition solutions for healthy ageing. Experts believe only a source of high-quality protein like soy protein supplies the essential amino-acids in proper ratio, supporting the maintenance of muscle in older adults.
“The importance of high-quality protein in the diets of older adults cannot be underestimated. High quality protein from plant-sources, like soy protein, can support muscle health, while providing important cardiovascular risk reduction benefits. Soy protein’s status as the only commercially-viable source of high-quality, plant-based protein makes it unique among protein sources and an important tool in the development of products targeting age-related muscle loss,” Jean M Heggie, strategic marketing lead for DuPont Nutrition and Health’s Protein Business, says.
Soy protein being cholesterol-free and contains low saturated benefits both non-diabetics and diabetics in the control of obesity and blood sugar. In addition, soy protein supports heart health, helps in managing weight and supports muscle health and function in aging individuals. Ingestion of soy protein also helps in preserving aging muscles. As part of a calorie-restricted diet, soy protein also helps these individuals improve their body weight and facilitate fat loss while preserving lean mass. Its consumption also benefits women in different stages of life.
According to Dr Ritika Samaddar, RD, regional head- Dietetics, Max Healthcare, determining the quality of protein in your diet is what everyone should be striving for, particularly when it is all about your body’s overall growth development and healthy aging. “Incorporation of soy protein into the diet may help support muscle health and function in aging individuals. These individuals can also use it as a part of their therapeutic controlled diet,” she says.
While most people consume soy protein in foods formulated with soy protein ingredients, traditional soy foods and supplements that contain soy ingredients. Foods rich in saturated fat can be substituted with soy foods to reduce elevated cholesterol levels, which can reduce risk of coronary heart disease. Even in bakery products, such as pancakes and doughnuts, excessive oil absorption can be prevented during frying by adding soy protein ingredients in them.