1. The Fiber in Beans Can Make you Healthier in More Ways than One
Soluble fiber can help protect your heart by binding with cholesterol and preventing it from being absorbed within the body, causing a reduction in blood cholesterol levels. A one-half cup serving of cooked beans contains six to eight grams of fiber, at least half of which is soluble. Foods containing this form of fiber may also assist with the regulation of blood sugar, which is beneficial for people who suffer from diabetes. Finally, soluble fiber helps to slow down the rate at which foods are digested, providing a longer feeling of fullness. So whether you're seeking to lower your weight, reduce your cholesterol or regulate your blood sugar, beans are a best bet for you.
2. Beans are Rich in Protein
Beans are a great source of protein, so they can easily replace the meat portion of any given meal. You don't have to declare yourself a full-fledged vegetarian in order to eat them. Just half a cup of cooked dry beans contains roughly 7-8 grams of protein. Since they are so inexpensive, replacing the meat portion of your lunches or dinners a few times each week with beans can actually help you save some money. Plus, there's a whole host of beans out there-kidney, chickpeas, navy, adzuki, fava-just to name a few, so your palate wonât get bored.
3. Beans are Low in Calories and Fat
At about 100 to 140 calories per half-cup serving, cooked beans are a great food for those seeking to control their weight. Beans of all types are also very low in fat, and unlike animal proteins, they do not contain any dietary cholesterol. Coupled with their fiber, beans can help reduce your blood cholesterol, along with your waistline, in more ways than one.
4. These Legumes Contain Nutrients Galore
Beans, also commonly referred to as legumes, are full of minerals: calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron. They are also a phenomenal source of B-vitamins, without which you would be lacking in that get-up-and-go feeling; as the B-vitamins help transform the foods you eat into energy. Beans also contain saponins and anthocyanins, substances that act as antioxidants, which help protect against cell damage that may lead to the development of cancer and heart disease.
5. Beans Have Purines
If you have ever suffered from gout, you should be aware that beans tend to be rich in purines. These purines add to the production of uric acid in your bloodstream, which is then transported to the wound site during a gout attack. It's best to limit your intake of beans, as well as other sources of purine-rich foods, in the midst of an acute case of gout.
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