Soya Chunks Gravy: Calories, Nutrition and Health Benefits
Complete plant-based protein powerhouse that rivals meat while supporting heart health, bone density, and sustainable nutrition for every health goal.
Quick Nutrition Facts
Per 1 Cup Cooked Soya Chunks Gravy (150g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 3.2g |
| Sugars | 0.5g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Iron | 12mg |
| Calcium | 220mg |
| Magnesium | 88mg |
| Isoflavones | 50-150mg |
Macronutrient Breakdown
NUTRITIONIST INSIGHT
Soya chunks deliver 28g complete plant protein with minimal calories (150), making them the highest protein-to-calorie ratio among vegetarian sources. The 12mg iron content exceeds chicken, and isoflavones support bone mineral density and hormone balance throughout life stages.
Myth Busters
MYTH #1: Soy Increases Estrogen and Is Unsafe
TRUTH: Clinical studies confirm soy consumption does not increase estrogen levels or breast cancer risk. Phytoestrogens are plant compounds with unique metabolism; they actually block harmful estrogen receptors in breast tissue.
MYTH #2: Soya Chunks Are Processed Junk Food
TRUTH: Soya chunks (textured vegetable protein) are made from defatted soy flour—a whole food concentrate. Minimal processing preserves 90%+ of soy's nutrients, making them nutritionally superior to many processed meat alternatives.
MYTH #3: Plant Protein Can't Build Muscle Like Meat
TRUTH: Studies show soy protein supports muscle gain equally to animal protein when total protein intake and amino acid profile match. At 28g complete protein per cup, soya chunks support post-workout muscle protein synthesis.
MYTH #4: Soya Chunks Have No Health Benefits
TRUTH: Soy contains isoflavones that improve bone mineral density (+2-3% annually), reduce hot flashes by 26%, support cardiovascular health via improved cholesterol, and provide anti-inflammatory compounds.
MYTH #5: Eating Soya Means You're Consuming GMOs
TRUTH: While many soy crops are GM, the final protein product (soya chunks) contains no DNA or genetic material—processing removes all genetic components. Nutritionally identical to non-GM soy.
MYTH #6: Soya Is Bad for Thyroid Health
TRUTH: Soy does not inhibit thyroid function in individuals with adequate iodine intake. India's soil provides sufficient iodine; iodized salt further ensures safety. Separation of soy intake from iodine-rich foods is unnecessary.
NutriScore by Health Goals
| Health Goal | NutriScore | Why This Score? |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Loss | ![]() | 150 calories, 28g protein for satiety and muscle preservation, 3.2g fiber, minimal fat (4g). Ideal meat substitute at 1/3 the calories. Pair with brown rice and vegetables. |
| Muscle Gain | ![]() | Complete plant protein (28g, all 9 amino acids), 12mg iron for oxygen transport, magnesium for muscle function. Post-workout with carbs for optimal muscle protein synthesis. |
| Diabetes Management | ![]() | Low GI (minimal glucose spike), 8g carbs, 28g protein slows absorption, isoflavones improve insulin sensitivity. Safe for diabetics; supports glycemic control. |
| PCOS Management | ![]() | High protein supports hormonal balance, low carbs, anti-inflammatory isoflavones reduce androgen excess. Excellent meat-free option for PCOS meal plans. Use minimal oil. |
| Pregnancy Nutrition | ![]() | 28g protein for fetal development, 12mg iron (supports expanded blood volume), 220mg calcium for bone health. Some Ayurvedic practitioners suggest moderation; consult healthcare provider. |
| Viral/Flu Recovery | ![]() | 28g protein aids immune cell production and tissue repair, 12mg iron supports recovery, easily digestible, mild spices aid recovery. Highly recommended for post-illness nutrition. |
PERSONALIZED NUTRITION
Track your meals with NutriScan for personalized NutriScores based on your specific health goals!
Blood Sugar Response to Soya Chunks Gravy
Understanding how soya chunks affect blood glucose helps optimize meal composition and timing.
Typical Glucose Response Curve
*This chart shows typical blood glucose response for general healthy individuals. Individual responses may vary. Not medical advice.*
Optimizing Soya Chunks Meals for Stable Blood Sugar
Soya chunks already have minimal carbohydrate impact; further optimization via pairing ensures sustained energy:
- 🍚 Brown Rice or Millets - Adds resistant starch and fiber; combined with 28g soya protein = complete meal with minimal glucose spike
- 🥬 Non-Starchy Vegetables - Leafy greens, broccoli, peppers add volume without carbs; increase satiety
- 🌶️ Spices (Turmeric, Cumin) - Curcumin improves insulin sensitivity by 20%; cumin aids digestion and nutrient absorption
- 🥒 Fermented Toppings - Pickle or yogurt-based sauces provide probiotics that improve glucose metabolism
This combination creates an optimal diabetic-friendly, weight-loss-supporting meal with extended satiety.
Cultural Significance
Soya chunks have become a cornerstone of vegetarian Indian cuisine, particularly valued for protein content and affordability.
In Indian Culture:
- Emerged as affordable alternative to meat in 1970s-1980s as vegetarianism gained prominence
- Extensively used in North Indian and South Indian cuisines; regional recipes vary (dry curry, gravy, stir-fry)
- Cost-effective protein source in school mid-day meal schemes across India
- Often served in temples and ashrams as sattvic (pure) vegetarian protein
- Popular in gym and fitness communities as affordable muscle-building food
- Growing adoption in urban Indian diets for sustainability and health consciousness
Global Impact:
- Textured vegetable protein (TVP) originated in USA; now widely produced and consumed globally
- Key ingredient in plant-based meat alternatives gaining mainstream adoption
- Recognized by WHO and FAO as optimal sustainable protein source for developing nations
- Production requires 5x less land and water than equivalent beef protein
- Supporting India's position as world's largest soybean processor
Compare & Substitute
Soya Chunks Gravy vs Similar Protein Options (Per 150g serving)
| Nutrient | 🌱 Soya Chunks Gravy | 🍗 Chicken Curry (100g meat) | 🍲 Paneer Butter Masala (100g) | 🥚 Egg Curry (2 eggs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal | 220 kcal | 280 kcal | 180 kcal |
| Carbs | 8g | 4g | 12g | 2g |
| Fiber | 3.2g | 0g | 0.5g | 0g |
| Protein | 28g | 28g | 18g | 13g |
| Fat | 4g | 10g | 20g | 13g |
| Iron | 12mg | 1.2mg | 0.8mg | 2.1mg |
| Cholesterol | 0mg (plant-based) | 85mg | 95mg | 420mg (2 eggs) |
| Cost/month | ₹200-300 | ₹800-1200 | ₹500-700 | ₹300-400 |
| Best For | Weight loss, muscle, cost-effective | Amino acid profile | Taste/satisfaction | Bioavailability |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are soya chunks good for weight loss?
Absolutely. At 150 calories per cup with 28g protein, soya chunks deliver exceptional satiety with minimal energy. Research shows protein-rich meals reduce hunger hormone ghrelin, keeping you fuller longer than high-carb alternatives.
Best practices: Prepare with minimal oil (1 tsp per cup), add non-starchy vegetables, pair with brown rice (not white rice), eat 1 cup with meals, avoid cream-based gravies (use tomato or coconut broth instead).
Can diabetics eat soya chunks gravy?
Yes, soya chunks are ideal for diabetics. Low glycemic load (8g carbs), high protein (28g), and isoflavones improve insulin sensitivity by up to 15%. The high protein content slows carbohydrate absorption when paired with rice or vegetables.
Tips for diabetics: Use oil-light gravy (vegetable or tomato broth), pair with low-carb vegetables, eat 1 cup per meal, test blood glucose 2 hours after eating to confirm tolerance, combine with brown rice to extend satiety.
How much protein is in soya chunks?
One cup (150g) of cooked soya chunks gravy contains 28g of complete plant-based protein with all 9 essential amino acids in optimal ratios. This equals or exceeds most chicken dishes and contains zero cholesterol (compared to 85mg in chicken).
What are the health benefits of soya chunks?
Key benefits: 28g complete protein for muscle building and repair; 12mg iron (800% DV) for oxygen transport and energy; isoflavones for bone density and hormone balance; calcium (220mg) for skeletal health; fiber (3.2g) for digestion; phytoestrogens with anti-inflammatory properties; supports cardiovascular health by lowering LDL cholesterol.
When is the best time to eat soya chunks gravy?
Optimal timing by goal: Weight loss = lunch or early dinner with brown rice/vegetables (supports satiety through evening); Muscle gain = post-workout with carbs to maximize muscle protein synthesis; Diabetes = any meal time paired with low-carb vegetables; General health = any meal as protein base (28g supports all daily needs when eaten 2x daily).
Are soya chunks safe for women to eat?
Yes, completely safe. Decades of research confirm soy does not increase breast cancer risk or excess estrogen. In fact, phytoestrogens may be protective. Benefits include improved bone mineral density (+3% annually), 26% reduction in menopausal hot flashes, and cardiovascular protection.
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