Edamame, which are fresh green soybeans, are a delicious and nutritious vegetable option which is gaining in popularity in the United States. This is in part due to the possible health benefits of consuming soy products. Grocery stores sell frozen edamame either shelled or still in the pods.

Nutrition Facts

A 1/2-cup serving of shelled edamame contains only 100 calories, with 3 g of unsaturated fat and 8 g of protein. It also provides 4 g of fiber and is a good source of calcium, copper, folate, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, thiamin, vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K. Edamame doesn't contain any cholesterol and has very little sodium.


Significance

Because the protein in edamame is complete protein, containing all of the amino acids necessary for human health, these beans are a good meat alternative. They provide the necessary protein, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals, without the saturated fat and cholesterol present in meat.

Possible Health Benefits

The Food and Drug Administration allows the health claim on labels that "Consuming 25 grams of soy protein a day as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease."

Phytoestrogens, such as those present in edamame, may help to prevent certain cancers, according to the e.hormone website hosted by the Center for Bioenvironmental Research at Tulane and Xavier universities.

Considerations

Although most soybeans produced are genetically modified, this is not the case with edamame, according to the National Soybean Research Laboratory at the University of Illinois.

Phytoestrogens act like weaker versions of hormones, so they shouldn't be consumed in large amounts or hormone-dependent tissue functions may be altered, causing health problems, according to e.hormone.

Potential

Edamame have a shorter cooking time and taste better than mature, dried soybeans. They are also easier for many people to digest, according to the National Soybean Research Laboratory. This makes edamame a good option for an alternative protein source. Put them in soups, salads and main dishes, or just eat them right out of the pod as a fun snack.


Taken From:
 http://www.livestrong.com/article/267453-the-nutritional-value-of-edamame-beans/#ixzz20YaKUpRW