Japanese miso soup in a white bowl horizontal top view
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Miso soup has a wide range of health benefits and can help you lose weight because it only has 25 calories per bowl. With those 25 calories, the soup also has 2 grams of protein. A few ingredients in particular make miso soup a good choice for a healthy diet. However, its high sodium content can be a concern.

B12 Complex

Miso soup contains B12, the best vitamin complex to take for energy-boosting needs. It helps encourage weight loss by speeding up the body's metabolic rate. The two factors are linked: The more energy you have, the more apt you are to exercise, which is essential to losing weight. Vitamin B12 also can prevent depression, which can lead to weight gain.

Protective Fatty Acids

Miso soup has a complex of protective fatty acids that come from natural fats and oils and can help keep weight off. The body can produce most fatty acids it needs, but it can't produce omega 3, which is in miso soup.

Fermented Soybean Paste

Miso soup is made from a thick paste of fermented soybeans, as well as various grains such as barley, rice or wheat. The soybean paste could be fermented anywhere from five days to five years. The longer the fermentation, the darker the substance. However, soybean paste is known for its large sodium content, which does not help weight loss.

Health Benefits of Miso Soup

The fermented soybean paste in miso soup can reduce the risk of breast cancer. The soup also helps balance out the female hormone estrogen, which can cause tumors. It also contains a variety of antioxidants and vitamin E, which is good for the complexion. The wakame seaweed in miso soup helps lower blood pressure and can even combat nicotine addiction. It's also good for boosting your immune system after an illness.

Bottom Line

Miso soup is a great small meal or snack that can encourage weight loss and fight illness. However, if your doctor has advised you to stay away from food with high levels of sodium, miso might not be the best choice for your diet.