Is soya chaap really healthy? You won’t believe what’s hiding in your ‘healthy’ protein

Moreover, with its low saturated fat content and high levels of protein and fibre, soy can be an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight and improve overall health. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Subrata Das, HOD of Internal Medicine and Diabetology at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru, shared, “Including soy in your diet helps build strong bones through calcium and magnesium, which enhance calcium absorption. It also helps control blood sugar, thereby benefiting diabetes management and reducing the risk of heart disease.”

However, he emphasised, “While whole or minimally processed soybeans have plenty of health benefits, soya chaap is a highly processed mixture of soya flour, refined flour (maida), water and salt, designed to mimic a meat-like texture. This processing strips away many of soya’s natural benefits, making it a less healthy option, especially depending on how it is cooked. One main difference is that soybeans are naturally gluten-free, unlike soya chaap. The inclusion of about 60% maida in soya chaap gives it a chewy texture, but it also contains refined carbohydrates, which can be unhealthy if eaten in large quantities.”

Why can soya chaap be unhealthy?

1. High calorie content: Soya chaap is often prepared with calorie-dense ingredients like oil, butter and large amounts of refined flour. This results in a higher calorie density, making it easier to overeat and potentially lead to weight gain over time. For those looking to control their weight, regularly consuming such calorie-rich foods without adequate physical activity can be harmful.
2. Fried cooking technologies: Soya chaap is often prepared by deep-frying or using excessive oil and butter, leading to unhealthy fats that can increase cholesterol levels. Frequent consumption of these preparations can increase the risk of heart disease and contribute to metabolic conditions such as obesity and diabetes.
3. Results of Maida: The maida in soya chaap can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can lead to insulin resistance upon frequent consumption, thereby increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Also, its high glycemic index helps in faster digestion, often leading to hunger soon after eating, which can promote overeating and weight gain.
4. Digestive concerns: Regular consumption of processed foods like soya chaap, especially those high in refined flours and oils, can cause digestive issues. Symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and discomfort are often reported by individuals who eat these highly processed items. Furthermore, the rich, fatty nature of soya chaap can make it challenging for the body to digest it, potentially making these problems worse.
5. Hygiene Issues: Soya chaap, which is commonly sold in markets and street stalls, poses hygiene concerns. If it is not cooked in a hygienic environment or not cooked properly, it can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. Eating undercooked or poorly stored soya chaap can expose a person to harmful bacteria, increasing the chances of food poisoning and other health problems.