Benefits of Miso for your Health

Miso (味噌) is made from soybeans and salt and kōji ( Aspergillus oryzae fungus) resulting in a thick paste used for sauces and spreads, to pickle vegetables, fish or meat and also to make Miso Soup known in Japan as Misoshiru (味噌汁)

Miso is a staple of Japanese cuisine and is rich in protein and other important nutrients that contribute to a healthy diet. It is a very common companion of Japanese dishes.

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Miso is the main ingredient in miso soup, along with other ingredients that help make the soup more flavorful, such as salt, green onions, dried seaweed or seaweed, and tofu.

The benefits that you can find when consuming miso are:

– Improves digestion and intestinal flora

Miso contains all the amino acids that humans need, making it a great source of protein and is also a source of probiotics , foods or supplements that contain live microorganisms intended to maintain or enhance the “good” bacteria in the body and prevent bad bacteria grow in the gut. Drinking miso can help restore intestinal balance after antibiotic treatment.

– Reduces the risk of cancer

Some studies suggest that it may provide protection against various cancers such as stomach, lung, colon, and breast. One study showed that regular soy consumption was correlated with a lower risk of stomach cancer, particularly among women. Another study showed that consuming miso soup and other soy foods, such as tofu, can reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, liver cancer.

– Reduces the risk of heart disease

It can also reduce the risks of heart disease and boost the immune system. There may be a link between isoflavones, a type of chemical found in soy used to make miso, and a lower risk of heart problems. One study showed that higher levels of these isoflavones correlate with a lower risk of strokes and heart attacks.

– Relief of menopausal symptoms

Isoflavones also provide a variety of health benefits, including relief of hot flashes in women going through menopause. Additionally, isoflavones may improve arterial health in these women.

You should know that miso also contains a lot of salt and is therefore not recommended if you need to follow a low-salt diet. Today, Japanese stores also sell a low-salt version of miso paste.

Miso soup is also an excellent source of Vitamin K, Manganese, Copper, Zinc, and other nutrients such as calcium, iron, B vitamins, and magnesium.