Why do Japanese people live longer? One reason might be food like tofu and miso. Japan's National Institute of Health and Nutrition did a study into the health benefits of soybean products. They said people who ate tofu and miso were 10 per cent less likely to die from diseases. Soybean-based food cut the risk of death from heart attacks, stroke and other cardiovascular problems. Eating fermented soy products cut the risk of death.
Soybeans are superfoods. They are rich in protein, fibre and unsaturated fats. Soy fibre helps to reduce cholesterol and weight. Soy has been an important part of food in Asia for centuries. The most common types of soy products are tofu (soybean curd), natto (fermented soybeans), miso (a fermented soybean paste) and soy sauce. Researchers say the salt in miso does not increase blood pressure. Soybean products are becoming more popular worldwide.