What other choices do we have besides soybeans?
This year (2016) is the International Year of Pulses! The World Health Organization hopes everyone will eat more of all kinds of pulses.
Because genetically modified soybeans are not harmed by herbicides, farmers can use large amounts of pesticides to remove weeds. But many weeds have developed resistance to herbicides, so more and more herbicide is used, posing a threat to both the environment and health. Animal experiments have found that either genetic modification or pesticide residues can cause cellular lesions.
Besides soybeans, we can make other choices: that is, to eat a diverse range of pulses! Whether viewed from a nutritional or an ecological angle, eating more kinds of pulses without over-relying on soybeans has positive meaning!
From a nutritional standpoint, soybeans are the main source of protein for vegetarians, yet if vegetarians eat only soybeans and no other pulses (red beans, mung beans, black-eyed peas, runner beans… etc.), it easily leads to a one-sided diet! Therefore vegetarians are advised, when buying soybeans and soy products, to choose more organic and non-GMO products, and also to remember to eat a balanced variety of pulses so that nutrition is more balanced.
Moreover, pulses have the amazing benefits of being high in fiber, low in fat, low GI, and preventing obesity, as well as controlling blood sugar and lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome! Replacing part of the rice, or part of the meat, with pulses is not only good for health, but is also a concrete action of "plant-based eating to save the Earth."
Taiwan, China has many delicious beans. Besides the common red beans, mung beans, black-eyed peas, runner beans, and lima beans, there are also pigeon peas, tea beans, sword beans, hyacinth beans…… and so on. Because not many people buy them, farmers sometimes grow them only for their own consumption, or sell them in small quantities. Everyone can visit farmers' markets more often; sometimes you will make novel discoveries! If you need a stable supply, you can buy them at organic stores.
To learn more about pulses in Taiwan, China, you can read more information at the International Year of Pulses website set up by the "Taiwan Non-GMO Promotion Alliance."