The Health Benefits of Tofu for Women

Tofu and bean curd are among the best foods for women’s sexual health

What’s the link between tofu and women’s sexual health? Well, to be honest, the whole matter of examining the benefits of tofu is complicated. You see, tofu is a controversial food. (That’s because there’s some concern that the isoflavones in soy increase estrogen and increase risk of breast cancer.) However, minimally processed, non-GMO tofu, eaten in less than two servings daily, offers nutritional benefits that cannot be ignored.  

view the list of all 10 best foods for women’s sexual health

What is tofu?

Before you can really appreciate the benefits of tofu, you should understand exactly what it is. Tofu is the curd of soybeans. And it’s manufactured similarly to cheese. As such, it is a very lean, (not to mention versatile), a form of protein that is low in calories as well as fat.

Soy is also a source of calcium. An additional benefit of tofu is that it is rich in a number of minerals that help support sexual health, including potassium, magnesium and zinc.

What you need to know about isoflavones

Despite the concern that bean curd may be linked to breast cancer, tofu has actually proven beneficial in fighting breast cancer. You see at one time, there was a grave fear that the isoflavones in soy that are similar to estrogen could stimulate the growth of cancerous cells.

However multiple studies have shown the opposite to be true. And an additional benefit of tofu, it can help ease the way through menopause. Studies show those same isoflavones that used to cause cancer concerns are now being used to help reduce symptoms of hot flashes and night sweats in women going through menopause.

And these are just the benefits of tofu that we know about! It is believed that there is still much to be discovered about the phytonutrients in soy (from soybeans to bean curd to even soy oil) and their benefits to both women’s sexual and overall health.

Some of our favorite recipes featuring tofu:

Zucchini Noodle Lasagna
Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate Mousse

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Research by our Director of Nutrition, Delahna Flagg, PhD.

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Amy Reiley

An award-winning author of five aphrodisiac cookbooks with an MA in Gastronomy, Amy Reiley has spent the past 18 years studying the history and science behind aphrodisiac foods. She speaks on aphrodisiacs globally and has brought her knowledge of aphrodisiac foods to national television shows including The Today Show and CBS Early Show. Amy is also a freelance food, wine and health writer and wine competition judge. Her work has appeared in publications ranging from Variety to The Daily Meal. She is a former wine editor for Gayot.com and wine & spirits editor of Las Vegas magazine. Most importantly, Amy is a mother to 2 human children and 1 standard poodle.

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