Soya chaap is usually enjoyed in Indian households for its nutritional benefits and affordability. However, it may not be as good for you as you think. While it may be packaged as a protein-rich food, it is not as healthy as it is made out to be.
Nutritionist Tanisha Bawa took to her Instagram account and shared how soya chaap could actually be worse than junk food.
Health risks of soya chaap
She said, “These soy nuggets are actually industrially processed. They have 80 to 90 percent refined flour, which in turn can spike your blood sugar levels.” She even dismissed other forms such as soya nuggets and soya milk, adding, “I do not recommend soy in any way or form because they have anti-nutrients which hinder the absorption of crucial vitamins and minerals.”
Ultra-processed vegetarian foods
She clarified they are not proteins but “empty carbs” that cause spikes, imbalances, and inflammation. And it’s your gut that pays the price for consuming soya-related products, which are ultra-processed and cause more harm than good.
Excessive oil and butter danger, weight gain risks with soya chaap
Additionally, soya chaap is calorie-dense, as it’s prepared with ingredients like oil, butter, and refined flour. If you end up overeating, you risk gaining weight, especially with a sedentary lifestyle. It’s mostly deep-fried, which may not be good for your heart health. Consuming it frequently can lead to digestive problems such as bloating, constipation, and discomfort.
Safer soy alternatives
In her post, Tanisha shared cleaner options for proteins which won’t cause harm to your gut health, and these include:
- Peas
- Mushrooms
- Spirulina
- Organic tempeh
- Vegan pea protein
- Quality vegan protein shakes
- Whole grains like quinoa & amaranth (add peas to up the protein)
- Chia puddings (fortified with vegan protein)
- Nuts, seeds & almond butter
“If you’re vegetarian, the key is a balanced mix of these daily to actually hit your protein goals,” she added.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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