The Benefits of Beans

Good things come in small packages. And there could not be anything smaller than beans that could pack hundreds of ‘good things’. Beans, or large seeds belonging to the plant family called Fabaceae are one of the cheapest sources of protein.

Check out this easy BBQ beans recipe by Laura Vitale. Even if you’re not really fond of beans, this video might change your mind because it is both easy and tasty.

In addition, beans contain vitamins, minerals, folate, magnesium, potassium, zinc, manganese and trace elements such as phosphorus. All these packed into small, miraculous things which we commonly know as ‘beans’.

Being the powerhouse of so many essential nutrients, it is no surprise that beans have been found to have multiple health benefits. One of the most important recently discovered advantages of beans are their role in fighting cancer. Due to the rise of the number of cases of cancer all over the world, researches are now more focused on sources that can help prevent the formation of cancer cells in the body. Prevention is better than cure, especially in this case where a definite cure is yet to be discovered. Beans contain isoflavones and phytosterols which have shown to prevent the risk of cancer.

In addition, beans are helpful as a source of nutrition for diabetic patients. Diabetes has been a problem for suffering patients as there is no definite cure. It is a condition which can only be managed, and hence researchers are always on the lookout for natural food sources that make this process simpler and easier. Patients with diabetes need steady sources of glucose that can be broken down slowly and over a large period of time, so as to prevent a dis-balance of sugar levels. Beans provide this advantage, along with packing fiber for aid in digestion.

Beans are also extremely advantageous for those who want to keep their weight in check. Management of weight does not only require avoidance of foods that cause weight gain, but also consuming meals that are filling and yet helping in losing fat. Beans again help this cause by providing a healthy source of nutrition. They are able to provide satiation by killing cravings and providing a filling meal, the fiber content helps keep the digestive system healthy and prevents bloating and constipation.

Furthermore, the quantity of fiber in beans helps to regulate blood cholesterol. Patients with high cholesterol levels are increasingly advised by doctors to include beans as a part of their daily meal plans.

There is no doubt that beans serve as an incredible source of nutrition, with multiple health benefits. And since they are simple to cook and can be inculcated into meals by using easy recipes, one should try to include them as part of their meals plans as often as possible.