how much calories in soya chunks - #22502
I am really trying to figure out this whole healthy eating thing, especially after my nutritionist told me to add more protein to my diet. I started cooking with soya chunks because I heard they are really good for you. But now, I am wondering how much calories in soya chunks actually adds up to a meal. Like, I cooked a stir-fry with them last night and I kind of overdid it, put in like a whole cup. I’m worried that I might’ve gone overboard, but I felt good about it, you know, thinking it's healthy! I’ve seen stuff online saying they are low calorie but how much calories in soya chunks really counts? I checked the packaging but it was super confusing, and I think I saw a couple of different numbers. And when I boiled them, they kinda puffed up a lot, making me think I ate way more than a serving size. Plus, I'm still feeling a bit bloated today, which makes me question if I ate too many. So, how much calories in soya chunks should I be concerned about, especially when using them in everyday meals? Anyone had a similar experience? Any advice or tips would be hugely appreciated!
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Doctors' responses
Soya chunks are a great source of plant-based protein, and they can indeed be a healthy addition to your diet. In terms of calories, a cup of dry soya chunks typically contains about 330 to 350 calories. However, once they’re cooked, the volume increases as they absorb water. This doesn’t necessarily add more calories, but it does make them more filling, which can sometimes trick us into thinking we’ve eaten a large amount. Whether boiled or soaked, this doesn’t change their calorie content but expands their size and texture. Feeling bloated might be due to the high fiber content in soya chunks, which can sometimes cause gas or bloating if your body isn’t accustomed to it. If this happens, you might want to start with smaller portions and gradually increase as your body adjusts. Additionally, ensuring you’re well hydrated can also help manage any digestive discomfort. In terms of serving size, if you’re incorporating soya chunks into a meal, measuring them after they’re cooked usually helps in controlling portion sizes—about half a cup of cooked soya chunks can be a good amount to aim for, contributing around 150-180 calories. Remember to balance your meals with vegetables and whole grains, which will help improve digestion. Overall, integrating soya chunks sensibly into meals and in moderation can align with your goal of eating healthier.
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