Textured vegetable protein is a popular meat substitute among some vegetarians. High in protein and low in fat content, TVP is a soy product that may pose health risks for individuals with soy or gluten intolerances. For best results, moderate your intake of TVP if you experience adverse symptoms and talk to your doctor about other possible meat alternatives for your diet.
Definition
TVP is a meatlike substance often available in bulk bins at health food stores. Generally sold in dehydrated form, TVP contains 50 to 70 percent soy flour and soy protein concentrate and is available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Despite its popularity among some vegetarians, TVP is sometimes avoided by individuals attempting to limit their intake of soy and gluten.
Soy Content
According to an animal study cited by the Healing Daily website, hamsters who were fed a soybean compound called isoflavones experienced puberty at accelerated rates. Although few studies have been performed on the effect of soybeans on human hormones, some medical practitioners advise men and women with hormone imbalances to avoid soy products, such as TVP, tofu and soy milk. Many soybean products also contain enzyme-inhibitors that can block the absorption of typsin and other enzymes used for digesting protein.
Gluten Intolerance
The Gluten Intolerance Group warns individuals with gluten intolerance and celiac disease to avoid foods that may contain TVP. Some products, such as bacon bits and selfbasting turkeys, may contain commercially inexpensive TVP in place of actual meat products. Since TVP may contain varying amounts of gluten, depending upon the manufacturer, individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance are advised to avoid it to prevent unpleasant symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue and muscle cramps.
Safety Concerns
Talk to your doctor if you are uncertain as to how your body will respond to regular intake of TVP. If you routinely experience unpleasant effects after eating TVP, this may signal an intolerance to the soy or a gluten intolerance. To reduce the health risk of added pesticides, purchase TVP made from certified organic ingredients.
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