Tofu is a popular protein substitute that’s a staple of Asian cuisine. It’s made by curdling soymilk, collecting the curds, and pressing them into the traditional gelatinous, white blocks. Consider these health benefits to find out why you should incorporate this treat into your regular diet.

5 Benefits of Eating Tofu

1. Reduces Risk of Heart Disease

The soybeans in tofu make it beneficial for the heart, containing isoflavones that naturally reduce bad cholesterol. These also work to maintain weight and body mass index, which are common biomarkers for cardiovascular disease.

2. Improves Brain Function

The isoflavones in this Asian cuisine also have a positive effect on the brain. They improve nonverbal memory as well as verbal fluency and motor skills. Another beneficial component is lecithin, which promotes the production of the phospholipids phosphatidic acid and phosphatidylserine. Each is vital to neuron functionality.

3. Prevents Cancer Cell Growth

Genistein is a prominent isoflavone in tofu that’s been found to have antioxidant properties. Regularly consuming moderate portions could reduce the potential for relapse in breast cancer survivors and prevent tumors from growing unchecked.

4. Increases Liver Function

Exposure to fatty products can gradually reduce liver function. However, the tofu in Asian cuisine could help to increase its functionality. Soy is known to reduce triglycerides and fat accumulation, which could alleviate the symptoms of fatty liver disease. It can also partially restore the metabolizing capabilities of the liver and allow the fat to pass through.

5. Boosts Kidney Health

Individuals who have Type 2 diabetes may have trouble retaining protein and can develop kidney disease. Eating tofu regularly could reverse the issue. Soy proteins stay within the body a lot longer than animal proteins and could allow the digestive system to extract all of the nutritional benefits.

You can add tofu into your meal when you dine at Aloha Cones in Honolulu, HI. Since 2013, this local eatery has provided Oahu kamaaina and tourists with a wide selection of Asian cuisine, using only fresh, quality ingredients in their dishes. View their menu online, or call (808) 842-7653 to place a takeout order. Connect with the team on Facebook for the latest news and updates.