Liquid Aminos: The Gluten-Free, Hunger-Reducing Secret to a Healthier Diet

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Liquid aminos is a liquid seasoning made from soybeans. It’s similar to soy sauce but contains less sodium and more amino acids. It’s used in cooking and as a table condiment.

It’s a liquid seasoning made from soybeans, similar to soy sauce but contains less sodium and more amino acids. It’s used in cooking and as a table condiment. So what is it exactly? Let’s look at the definition and uses of this unique product.

What is liquid aminos

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What Exactly Are Liquid Aminos and Why Should You Consider Adding Them to Your Diet?

Liquid aminos are a popular alternative to traditional soy sauce. They are made by a process of breaking down soybeans into their essential amino acid blocks, which are then mixed with water and fermented. This produces a liquid that is rich in protein and contains all the essential amino acids that our bodies need to function properly.

What Makes Liquid Aminos Different from Soy Sauce?

While liquid aminos are similar to soy sauce in taste and function, there are some slight differences that make them a good substitute for those who are vegan or vegetarian. Liquid aminos are produced without excess salt, which is commonly found in traditional soy sauce. They also don’t contain any chemical preservatives, making them a healthier option overall.

What Are the Benefits of Using Liquid Aminos?

There are a number of benefits to using liquid aminos in your cooking and diet, including:

  • They contain all the essential amino acids that our bodies need to build and maintain muscle and other tissues.
  • They are a good source of protein for those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • They can help to reduce hunger and cravings, making them a good addition to weight loss diets.
  • They are easy to add to your diet and can be used in a variety of dishes, including rice, stir-fries, and marinades.
  • They are a good alternative to traditional soy sauce for those who are looking to reduce their sodium intake.

Also read: liquid aminos vs Worcestershire sauce, how they differ

How to Use Liquid Aminos in Your Cooking

Liquid aminos can be used in a variety of dishes, including:

  • Stir-fries and sautés
  • Marinades for meat, tofu, or vegetables
  • Salad dressings
  • Rice dishes
  • Soups and stews

When using liquid aminos in your cooking, it’s important to keep in mind that they are fairly strong and can easily overpower other flavors. Start with a little and add more as needed.

Which Brands of Liquid Aminos Should You Try?

There are a number of different brands of liquid aminos available, including:

  • Bragg Liquid Aminos
  • Coconut Secret Coconut Aminos
  • Kikkoman Soy Sauce Alternative
  • Maggi Seasoning Sauce
  • Ohsawa Organic Nama Shoyu

Each brand has its own unique flavor and content, so it’s important to check the label to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need. Some brands may also include notes on how to use their liquid aminos in different dishes.

Storing and Using Liquid Aminos

Liquid aminos should be stored in a cool, dark place, just like traditional soy sauce. They come in a variety of different containers, including bottles and spray bottles, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

Overall, liquid aminos are a fairly popular and significant addition to your diet, and can provide a number of benefits to your overall health and well-being.

The Power of Liquid Aminos: Contain Essential Amino Acids

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and they play critical roles in regulating gene expression, cell signaling, and immunity. There are 20 different types of amino acids, and the body can produce some of them independently. However, nine of them are essential, meaning that the body cannot produce them, and they must be obtained through the diet.

How Do Liquid Aminos Compare to Other Seasonings?

Compared to other seasonings, liquid aminos offer a number of advantages, including:

  • Independent of soy: Liquid aminos are made from fermented soybeans, but they do not contain the same compounds that can cause allergic reactions or other health issues associated with soy.
  • Higher amino acid content: Liquid aminos contain higher amounts of amino acids compared to other seasonings, making them a more potent source of these important nutrients.
  • Available in different forms: Liquid aminos are available in clear, dark, and granulated forms, as well as in different flavors like garlic, teriyaki, and apple.
  • Cost-effective: Liquid aminos are less expensive than some other health food products, making them a budget-friendly option for those looking to add more amino acids to their diet.

Why Liquid Aminos Are a Perfect Gluten-Free Alternative to Soy Sauce

Liquid aminos are naturally gluten-free, making them a useful seasoning for people following a gluten-free diet. Unlike soy sauce, which is commonly produced by fermenting wheat and soybeans with yeast and mold, liquid aminos are made by hydrolyzing soybeans or coconut sap. This process breaks down the essential amino acids in the soybeans or coconut sap, resulting in a salty, fermented product that delivers the same amino acids as soy sauce.

Verified Gluten-Free

Many liquid aminos are verified gluten-free, meaning they have been tested and confirmed to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. This level is considered safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to eat.

Popular Substitutes

Liquid aminos are becoming a popular substitute for soy sauce in many recipes. They have a similar salty and umami flavor but are less overpowering than soy sauce. Liquid aminos are also perfect for mixing with other seasonings to create unique flavor profiles.

Particularly Useful for Paleo Diet

Liquid aminos are particularly useful for people following a paleo diet, which eliminates legumes, including soybeans. Liquid aminos provide a soy-free alternative that delivers the essential amino acids found in soy sauce.

Cooked or Roasted

Liquid aminos can be used in the same way as soy sauce, as a seasoning for cooked or roasted dishes. They can also be used as a marinade for meat, fish, or vegetables.

Not Just for Gluten-Free Diets

Liquid aminos are not just for people following a gluten-free diet. They are a great alternative to soy sauce for anyone looking for a healthier option. Liquid aminos are lower in sodium than soy sauce and do not contain any chemical preservatives.

Preservative-Free Option: Liquid Aminos

Traditional soy sauces contain added preservatives to increase their shelf life and prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. One common preservative is sodium benzoate, which is linked to adverse effects such as triggering allergic reactions, runny nose, and regulating gene and cell immunity. While generally recognized as safe, some people may need to avoid consuming it due to special dietary needs or allergic triggers.

Liquid Aminos: A Safe and Allergen-Free Alternative

Liquid aminos, on the other hand, do not contain any chemical preservatives. They are made from fermented coconut or soybeans and contain essential amino acids that play critical roles in building and regulating the body. Liquid aminos offer a great option for people looking to avoid allergenic triggers or regulate their sodium intake.

The Downsides of Soy Sauce

Compared to traditional soy sauce, liquid aminos are slightly more expensive and may be difficult to find in some grocery stores. However, they are a great alternative for those who want to avoid the downsides of consuming soy sauce, such as:

  • High sodium content: Soy sauce contains around 1,000 mg of sodium per tablespoon, which can increase blood pressure and lead to other health issues.
  • Allergenic triggers: Soy sauce is a common trigger for those with soy allergies.
  • Added preservatives: As mentioned earlier, soy sauce contains added preservatives that may not be appropriate for everyone.

Research Supports Liquid Aminos

Studies have shown that liquid aminos can offer a number of benefits, including:

  • Increased satiety: Liquid aminos may help reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness.
  • Safe consumption: Liquid aminos are generally recognized as safe and do not contain any chemical preservatives.
  • Independent of dietary needs: Liquid aminos can be consumed by people with special dietary needs or those looking for a healthier alternative to soy sauce.

Overall, liquid aminos are a great choice for those looking to add essential amino acids to their diet without the downsides of traditional soy sauces. While they may be slightly more expensive and difficult to find, their benefits and preservative-free nature make them a worthwhile option.

Feeling Hungry? Liquid Aminos May Help!

Liquid aminos may help reduce hunger due to its high protein content. Protein is known to be more satiating than carbohydrates or fats, and liquid aminos are a great source of protein. Here are some steps to add liquid aminos to your diet to help reduce hunger:

  • Add a little bit of liquid aminos to your water to create a tasty and nutritious drink.
  • Use liquid aminos as a substitute for soy sauce in your cooking. It adds a sweet and savory taste to your food.
  • Spread some liquid aminos on tofu or sliced vegetables before cooking to add extra flavor.
  • Thinly slice firm tofu and fry it with liquid aminos for a tasty snack.
  • Add a few tablespoons of liquid aminos to your vegetable broth when cooking to add extra nutrition and taste.

Nutrition Information

Liquid aminos are low in calories and saturated fat, making them a good addition to a healthy diet. Here is the nutrition information for 1 tablespoon of liquid aminos:

  • Calories: 10
  • Protein: 2 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 0 grams
  • Fat: 0 grams
  • Vitamin C: 2% of the Daily Value

Where to Find Liquid Aminos

Liquid aminos are a common ingredient that can be found at most regular grocery stores. Some popular brands include Bragg Liquid Aminos and Coconut Secret Liquid Aminos. Liquid aminos can also be found at health food stores or online.

So, if you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious way to reduce hunger, give liquid aminos a try!

Adding Liquid Aminos to Your Diet

Liquid aminos are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ways to add them to your diet:

  • Use as a soy sauce alternative: Liquid aminos have a similar taste to soy sauce but contain lower sodium levels and are gluten-free. They can be used in stir-fries, marinades, and dressings.
  • Add to water: A few drops of liquid aminos can be added to water for a quick and easy protein boost.
  • Mix with other ingredients: Liquid aminos can be mixed with chopped onion, sliced garlic, and a little bit of water to create a flavorful sauce.
  • Spread on sliced vegetables: Thinly sliced vegetables such as cucumber or zucchini can be spread with liquid aminos for a quick and healthy snack.
  • Use in place of salt: Liquid aminos contain essential amino acids that can help build and maintain a healthy body. They can be used in place of salt to add flavor to foods.

Brands and Types of Liquid Aminos

There are different brands and types of liquid aminos available in the market. Here are some notes on the different sorts:

  • Bragg Liquid Aminos: This is a commonly known brand that is produced from non-GMO soybeans. It is a vegan and gluten-free product that contains 16 essential and non-essential amino acids.
  • Coconut Secret Coconut Aminos: This brand is made from coconut sap and is a soy-free alternative to liquid aminos. It is also gluten-free and contains 17 amino acids.
  • Nama Shoyu: This is a dark and strong type of liquid aminos that is made from whole soybeans and wheat. It is a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids.
  • Tamari: This is a type of soy sauce that is similar to liquid aminos. It is made from soybeans and contains less wheat than regular soy sauce.

Potential Benefits and Safety

While there is currently no scientific research to support the significant benefits of liquid aminos, they are generally considered safe to consume. Here are some notes on the potential benefits and safety of liquid aminos:

  • Lower sodium levels: Liquid aminos contain lower sodium levels than regular soy sauce, making them a healthier alternative.
  • Gluten-free: Liquid aminos are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Rare potential to cause allergic reactions: While it is rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to liquid aminos. It is important to read the labels and buy from reputable brands.
  • Build and maintain a healthy body: Liquid aminos contain essential amino acids that play a significant role in maintaining a healthy body.

Conclusion

So, that’s liquid aminos! It’s a great alternative to traditional soy sauce, and perfect for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet. You can use it in cooking a variety of dishes, from rice to stir-fries and more. Plus, it’s a healthier option with more essential amino acids. So, give it a try!

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.