Soy Lecithin: Benefits And Contraindications

Soy lecithin has the ability to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular problems, when consumed within a balanced diet.

Soy lecithin is considered an emulsifier or natural dietary supplement, which is distinguished from the rest due to its nutritional characteristics. It has many properties, among the most important are its beneficial effects on the brain and heart.

Since its discovery in the 1950s, different applications have been found for it. For example, it has been included in the treatment of brain injuries, cardiovascular problems, and disorders of the nervous system.

Interesting Facts About Soy Lecithin

The term lecithin derives from the Greek lekigos which means “egg yolk”. What does the egg have to do with soy lecithin? They share a number of nutrients: fatty acids, lipids, and phospholipids.

Lecithin can be found in many foods such as fish , but in the case of soy lecithin, a process must be carried out from the seeds or grains of the plant.

The process that allows the extraction of lecithin consists of removing the alcohol from the flakes and processing them.  Currently you can get soy lecithin in different presentations: capsules, granules or tablets.

The use of this lecithin is continually expanding and in stores we can already buy mixes to make instant drinks, sauces and children’s meals. We also find it in the world of cosmetics, powdered milk and in different areas of gastronomy.

Foods rich in lethicin

Not only in soy can we find lecithin, you can also consume it through some foods. You can include them in the diet to take advantage of their properties. Among them are:

• Corn.
• Cabbages.
• Liver.
• Walnuts.
• Sesame.
• Peanuts
• Lentils.
• Dandelion.
• Yolk.
• Whole grains.

Nutrients and properties of soy lecithin

The consumption of soy lethicin provides a good amount of vitamins B and E and phosphorus. All these substances are beneficial for health. Learn about some of the benefits of this supplement.

Reduce the cholesterol

Studies have revealed that soy lecithin improves the lipid profile in the blood, therefore it is recommended in people with high cholesterol or fatty liver (which in turn is related to cardiovascular and metabolic problems).

It is antioxidant and regenerating

This lecithin, like many of the others present in nature, acts as an antioxidant and protector of brain cells in particular and of the body in general.

For this reason, it is recommended for students seeking an improvement in their mental performance. Soy lecithin reduces fatigue and tiredness, increases concentration and memory.

Improves digestion

As if that were not enough, it  improves digestion and prevents gastric problems. It can improve the processes of diarrhea, according to an article published in the Journal of Oleo Science .

In order to enjoy its benefits for the stomach, it is recommended to consume 2 tablespoons of powdered or granulated soy lecithin before each meal, it can be alone, with yogurt or with juice, as with any other cereal.

Soy lecithin and being overweight

The consumption of soy lecithin helps people with obesity, incorrect eating habits and a sedentary life. In addition, it can serve to dissolve the fats that accumulate in the body. Regular consumption of soy can help reduce metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk, as a study published in the European Journal of Nutrition concludes .

Do you want to know more? Read: The 7 most common myths about fat that can affect weight

Other benefits of soy lethicin

There are still more benefits of regular consumption of soy lecithin :

• Nourishes the nervous system.
• Prevents Alzheimer’s disease.
• Improves memory and increases intellect.
• Fight insomnia and reduce nervousness and anxiety.

• Prevents premature cell aging.
• It also prevents mental fatigue.
• It prolongs the life of the arteries and prevents hardening (which causes arteriosclerosis).
• Decreases homocysteine ​​(associated with cardiovascular problems).
• Prevents heart attacks.
• Avoid the formation of gallstones.
• Prevents the development of blood clots.

Contraindications of soy lethicin

Soy lecithin is a good ally for health, but it also has some contraindications:

• During pregnancy and lactation it is advisable not to take it.
• Its consumption should be avoided in case of hypothyroidism, as it can inhibit the absorption of the drugs that treat this disease.

Always within a balanced diet

Regular consumption of soy lecithin can bring certain health benefits. However, it is important to introduce it within the framework of a balanced and varied diet.

It must be remembered that there are no magic foods capable of preventing diseases by themselves. Therefore, the intake of this food should not replace any drug treatment.