Tofu
Tofu for Anti-Aging
Tofu is an excellent anti-aging food as it moisturizes the skin and joints while making the skin more firm. It contains isoflavones which ensure fewer wrinkles and smooth skin.
Those that suffer from hot, fiery, or dry skin conditions, can benefit by using tofu in their diet due to its dull, cooling properties.
Its estrogenic properties make it ideal for dryness due to menopause. Vatas should exercise caution: tofu moisturizes the skin but it is also a diuretic, which can dry out a sensitive Vata constitution.
Eases Menopause
Dreading menopause? Tofu is supportive for women who have low estrogen, due to phytoestrogen compounds. In menopause, estrogen levels drop, causing dry skin and low bone density.
Tofu is used in Ayurveda to reduce hot flashes and menopause-related symptoms, including dry skin and low bone density. Tofu is also supportive during menstruation when estrogen dips. It is also sometimes recommended for nursing mothers to help with the quality and quantity of breastmilk.
Controversy Over Estrogen Effects
The debate and controversy surrounding the estrogenic effects of tofu, especially regarding breast cancer has been around for quite some time. Obviously, if you eat something in excess, no matter what it is, it will affect you somehow.
While many studies worldwide have been conducted for various reasons. The bottom line is if you are someone who already has high estrogen, has lumps in your breasts during menstruation, or has an allergy to soy, of course, you should avoid it. On the flip side of that though, as estrogen levels drop during menopause, Ayurveda does use soy products, in particular tofu, to assist with increasing those levels. It just makes sense. However, even in Ayurveda, your Ayurveda dosha type is going to also play a major part in whether it is recommended.
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Properties of Tofu
Gunas (NATURE): Tamasic (darkness)
Doshas: Pitta Balancing; Vata/Kapha Aggravating
Superpower: Protein Powerhouse
Tastes: Astringent
Element: Air, Earth
Energy: Grounding
What’s so great about Tofu?
Tofu is a complete protein and contains all the essential amino acids your body needs. It also provides fats, carbs, and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals - in addition to fiber, potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, and manganese
Tofu contains several anti-inflammatories, and antioxidant phytochemicals making it a great addition to an anti-inflammatory diet.
Source of protective antioxidants called isoflavones
Used for menopausal symptoms and reduces hot flashes
Used for dry skin and low bone density
Moisturizes the skin and joints
Reduces wrinkles
Heart-healthy
Toxin clearing diuretic
Supports blood sugar management