Can Soy Diets Improve Mood?

A new study focuses on the impact of soy-rich diets on blood sugar, mood, and energy.

Dr. Candida Rebello from Pennington Biomedical Research Center is exploring the link between blood sugar and soy-rich diets in her latest study, “Lifestyle Intervention for Improving Metabolic and Motivational Outcomes,” or MOTIVATE, aiming to improve mood and energy levels ().

When soy seeds are cut, they produce the anti-microbial compound known as glyceollin, which has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and cognition.

How to Reduce Blood Sugar Spikes After Meals
Blood sugar spikes after meals may deteriorate health. An active lifestyle and a healthy meal plate will regulate the blood sugar levels after eating.

‘Did You Know?
Soy-rich diets have been linked to a 15% lower risk of developing breast cancer in women. #bloodsugar #soy’

The cut soy seeds will be milled into flour and will be included in the diets of some of the participants.

The MOTIVATE study is open to adults aged 50 to 75 years who feel that they have low energy levels, lack motivation, and have a body mass index of 30 or greater. The study will last approximately 12 weeks, and meals are provided to participants at no cost.

Unlocking the Soy-Blood Sugar Link

“Soy is widely recognized for its health benefits, and my research is focused on studying the effects of soybeans that have been activated to produce a component that the plant uses to protect itself,” said Dr Rebello, who is the Director of the Nutrition and Chronic Disease Program at Pennington Biomedical.

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar often occurs in diabetic patients on insulin treatment. Other conditions like hormone deficiencies can also cause hypoglycemia.

“I’m particularly interested in understanding how this form of soy, when integrated into a healthy diet, influences blood sugar. The MOTIVATE study will examine the impact of a healthy eating plan and exercise on blood sugar, mood, and energy levels.”

Qualified participants will undergo a screening process before being enrolled in the study. Once in the study, participants will be provided with a diet and exercise regimen and will be required to visit the Center three days per week for exercise and to collect their meals over the study’s duration.

Tests for Blood Sugar
What is a blood sugar test? Blood sugar tests are used for diagnosis and management of diabetes. Common tests are HbA1C, fasting blood sugar, oral glucose tolerance and random blood sugar.

Study participants will be segmented into groups, with some receiving meals that do contain soy, and others receiving meals that do not contain soy.

During these visits, participants will provide test administrators with their medical histories, height and weight measurements, and vital signs.

Soy / Soya - A Holy Food
Soy or Soya is a crop which has been cultivated from thousands of years. It belongs to the family of legumes.

The study also includes physical examination, insulin sensitivity test, electrocardiogram and a DXA scan to measure bone density, muscle, and body fat.

"At Pennington Biomedical, we are putting science to work for a healthier Louisiana, and as we age, healthier can mean being more alert, energetic and motivated,” said Dr. John Kirwan, Executive Director of Pennington Biomedical.

“Dr. Rebello’s MOTIVATE study will explore the hidden benefits of soy on mood and energy levels, and we are counting on Louisiana residents to join the study and help us uncover new insights.”

Reference:

Pennington Biomedical Study to Explore Effects of Soy on Blood Sugar Levels - (https://www.pbrc.edu/news/media/2024/soy-effects-on-blood-sugar.aspx)

Source-Eurekalert