Soybeans – Japanese health and longevity secret

From a Tiny Soybean to a Superfood in Japanese Cuisine

Soybeans are not only a familiar food in the daily lives of Vietnamese people, but also an essential part of the Japanese diet—one of the healthiest in the world, with a notably high life expectancy. Among various soy-based foods, tofu appears almost every day on Japanese dining tables.

So what makes soybeans so special? And why are they so loved by the Japanese? Let’s explore in this article.

Soybeans – Small in Size, Big in Power

Soybeans are one of the highest-quality plant-based sources of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids our bodies need—something rare in the plant world. This makes soybeans a star ingredient in healthy diets, especially for those trying to reduce red meat or follow clean-eating or vegetarian lifestyles.

A 2020 study from Harvard University found that:

People who regularly consume soy protein have a 12% lower risk of death from heart disease compared to those who don’t.

Impressive health benefits of soybeans and tofu

Good for heart and reduces bad cholesterol

Plant compounds in soy—especially isoflavones—have been shown to lower bad cholesterol (LDL), raise good cholesterol (HDL), and help regulate blood pressure. These factors are crucial in preventing cardiovascular diseases.

The journal Circulation (by the American Heart Association) once reported:

Adding 25g of soy protein per day can reduce LDL levels in the blood by 4–6%, lowering the risk of atherosclerosis.

Balances female hormones and aging

If you’re entering perimenopause or simply concerned about wrinkles and skin aging, soy can be an ideal companion. Thanks to isoflavones, soy helps naturally regulate estrogen levels, improve sleep, stabilize mood, and slow down aging.

A survey in Japan revealed:

Women who regularly consume soy products like tofu have more elastic skin and fewer breakouts compared to those who don’t.

Supports bone health and prevents osteoporosis

Surprisingly, just 100g of soft tofu provides up to 350mg of calcium—as much as a glass of milk. Combined with magnesium and vitamin K, soy helps keep bones strong, especially important for middle-aged women.

Helps prevent cancer

Tofu is rich in selenium and other essential minerals that support a healthy immune system and help prevent colorectal cancer. According to several studies, consuming at least 10mg of soy and soy products per day may reduce breast cancer recurrence by up to 25%.

Why do the Japanese eat tofu every day?

The Japanese have long been known for their light, plant-rich, and nutritionally balanced diet. Tofu plays a central role for several reasons:

Nutrient-dense but low in calories

Tofu is high in quality protein but low in fat, making it a great fit for healthy lifestyles. It can be eaten frequently without causing weight gain.

Flexible to cook

Tofu is a flexible ingredient in Japanese cuisine. In summer, it’s served chilled as hiyayakko, simply topped with soy sauce, green onions, and grated ginger. In winter, tofu is used in hot pot dishes with vegetables to warm the body. It can even replace eggs in desserts or vegan sauces.

👉 Check out Tofu Recipe Ideas

Japanese food philosophy

In Japanese culture, eating is not just about feeling full, but also about maintaining long-term health. They follow the philosophy of “Shokuiku”—a holistic nutrition education approach. In this philosophy, tofu is valued as a light, easy-to-digest, and nutritious food.

Boost your health daily with soybeans and tofu

With so many proven health benefits, soybeans and tofu are not only traditional Japanese ingredients but also globally recognized superfoods. Adding tofu to your daily meals is a simple yet effective way to:

• Protect your heart

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Support hormone balance

• Prevent chronic illnesses

Conclusion

Tofu is more than just a food—it’s part of a healthy, long-lived, and mindful lifestyle embraced by the Japanese. You don’t need to make big changes—start today by including light, nutritious tofu dishes in your family’s meals.

At Kowa General Food Vietnam, we believe that good health starts with simple, smart choices at every meal. That’s why every piece of our tofu is made from carefully selected, non-GMO soybeans, using authentic Japanese processes to ensure freshness, cleanliness, and safety for your whole family.

👉 Learn more about How we select clean ingredients and produce tofu to Japanese standards

A piece of tofu today—a small step toward a lifetime of good health.

Image source: Freepik