Soybean Powder (Kinako)
Kinako - a little-known superfood!
Kinako is made by grinding roasted soybeans, which are known in Japan as “the meat of the field”.
We don’t actually consume kinako that much from day to day - it is mostly used to make "mochi", the pounded rice cakes that we traditionally make to celebrate the new year. (photo)
Having said that, kinako has recently become known for its superb health benefits, with some scientists even calling it the most nutritious food in the world!
All the benefits of soy
Kinako naturally shares the same nutritional profile as soybeans, and is a source of plant-based protein. In fact, it is packed with more protein per 100g than meat!
And since the nutrients in kinako are easily absorbed by the body, it has been recommended as the best way to get the benefits of soy in your diet!
Rich in soy isoflavones, protein, dietary fiber, calcium, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B1 and lecithin (which has an anti-aging effect), kinako is a nutritional powerhouse!
What’s more, there has recently been a lot of buzz in Japan about how kinako fights baldness!
Isoflavones are known to promote hair growth by mimicking the female hormone estrogen and reducing levels of DHT, a hormone that causes hair loss. So if you are starting to thin on top, please do give it a try!
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