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What is Tofu

Leena Palande
Tofu is native to China and is therefore referred to as 'the cheese of Asia'. What is tofu made of? Is tofu good for health? Find answers to these questions and more in this story...
Tofu is an invariable part of Asian cuisine. It is believed that tofu originated in China and has been in use since 2000 years. Tofu is also called 'bean curd' because it is obtained by pressing the curd made from soy milk. You must have seen or enjoyed the white soft cubes of tofu in Chinese soups or other dishes.
Tofu block looks like a block of cottage cheese. Many people do not know what is tofu made of. Tofu is made from soy milk, water and coagulating agent. Soybean known as Glycine max is used to make tofu.

Tofu Nutrition Facts

According to tofu nutrition facts, tofu is a good source of protein, especially for the vegetarians. Half cup serving of tofu offers about 20 g protein. This is about 40% of the daily value required. Tofu also offers good carbs and fats. Besides, it is free of cholesterol. It is a good source of potassium. Half cup tofu contains 300 mg potassium.
Tofu is also packed with various vitamins, especially, vitamin B1, B2 and B6. Just take a look at the list of minerals present in tofu: calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, zinc, selenium, phosphorus, etc. With such a nutrition punch, tofu boosts your energy levels miraculously. I think you have got answer to the question 'is tofu good for health'.

Tofu Health Benefits

About 4 ounces of tofu offer around 86 calories. Calories in tofu may vary according to the types of tofu but they are considered as healthy calories. You can include tofu in weight loss diets. Soy protein present in tofu helps reduce triglycerides and cholesterol levels.
This in turn lowers the risk of obesity, heart diseases, stroke, etc. Tofu helps avoid atherosclerosis or diabetic heart disease. Regular consumption of tofu can supply enough phytoestrogen which can help lower menopause symptoms. Since tofu is rich in calcium, it helps prevent osteoporosis too.
So, women are especially advised to consume tofu regularly. Antioxidants in tofu help cancel the effects of free radicals on the body and thus protect you from various diseases and disorders. Omega 3 fatty acids from tofu strengthen the cells and thus increase your immunity.
The yellowish white little cubes or crumbles of tofu make your tissues and bones strong. Calcium and copper along with potassium reduce the chances of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
The benefits of tofu, mentioned above, are enough to explain why tofu is referred to as a healthy food. It is available all the year round in all parts of the world. Though tofu is an invariable part of Chinese food, it has gained popularity in Western world too.
Tofu itself has a neutral taste but it easily picks up the flavor of its surrounding ingredients. This makes tofu a highly versatile food. I know, you do get protein when you eat meat; but the difference is that tofu is virtually free of saturated fat. When you eat tofu, you get a good amount of protein at the cost of very few calories. By the way, the name 'tofu' is actually a Japanese name. The original Chinese name for tofu is 'doufu'.
Those who are allergic to soy products should not include tofu in diet or should check for the allergy symptoms before including tofu in diet. Similarly, those who already have kidney or gallbladder problems should stay away from tofu. A healthy person can include tofu in regular diet and can reap health benefits of tofu. Those who suffer from diseases or disorders may consult their physician before consuming tofu.