Soy milk, sweetened, plain, refrigerated

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: 3 grams
• Proteins: 2.78 grams
• Fats: 1.96 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 various phytonutrients that contribute to its health benefits. Here are the primary phytonutrients found in sweetened, plain, refrigerated soy milk:

• Isoflavones:
• Genistein: Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, genistein helps reduce the risk of certain cancers, support heart health, and improve bone health.
• Daidzein: Another isoflavone with antioxidant properties that support cardiovascular health, improve bone density, and may reduce menopausal symptoms.
• Glycitein: A minor isoflavone that also contributes to the antioxidant and estrogenic effects of soy products.
• Saponins:
• These compounds have 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 support cholesterol reduction and has anti-inflammatory effects.
• Stigmasterol: Known for its role in reducing cholesterol levels and supporting overall cardiovascular health.
• Phenolic Acids:
• Ferulic Acid: An antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, supports skin health, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• P-Coumaric Acid: Possesses antioxidant properties and contributes to reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Flavonoids:
• Kaempferol: Known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
• Quercetin: A potent antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation, supports cardiovascular health, and boosts the immune system.

Health Benefits of Phytonutrients in Soy Milk

• Antioxidant Protection: Isoflavones, phenolic acids, and flavonoids in soy milk 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.
• Cancer Prevention: Some phytonutrients, such as genistein, daidzein, kaempferol, and quercetin, have anticancer properties, potentially reducing the risk of certain types of cancer.
• 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 can help balance hormones, particularly in postmenopausal women, and may reduce symptoms of menopause.
• Immune Support: Compounds like saponins and quercetin boost immune function, helping the body to fight off infections and diseases.

Summary

Sweetened, plain, refrigerated 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 41 calories
• Glycemic Index: Low to moderate (30-40)

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. 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.

Soy milk, especially the sweetened and plain variety, is a popular plant-based milk alternative. Its versatility in both sweet and savory dishes, combined with its nutritional benefits, makes it a valuable addition to various diets.