5 Awesome Things You Should Know
About Beans | #FreshFoodFriday

Beans are a pretty magical food. They satisfy all the major requirements we look for in a food:
1. Healthy
2. Tasty
3. Versatile
4. Affordable

Let’s explore these four awesome qualities. We’ll leave the fifth one for last.

1. Healthy


Beans Are ‘Heart-Healthy’

“Epidemiologic studies support the cardio-protective effects of legumes as part of a healthy diet. In particular, one study examined the relationship between bean consumption and occurrence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and reported that 1 serving per day of beans was associated with a 38% lower risk of myocardial infarction 4. A second study 5 reported that individuals consuming legumes at least 4 times per week had a 22% lower risk of heart disease than individuals consuming legumes less than once per week.”

*Source: Andrea M. Hutchins, “Beans and Heart Disease”. The Beans Institute.


Beans May Reduce Your Risk of Certain Cancers

“The active ingredients in beans that scientists believe may play a role in cancer prevention include: saponins, protease inhibitors and phytic acid…In laboratory studies, saponins have shown the ability to inhibit the reproduction of cancer cells and slow the growth of tumors in several different tissues. Protease inhibitors have slowed the division of cancer cells and helped to prevent tumors from releasing substances called proteases that destroy nearby cells. Phytic acid has shown the ability to significantly slow the progression of tumors.”


*Source: “Foods That Fight Cancer?”. American Institute of Cancer Research.


Beans Are Packed With Vitamins & Nutrients
Beans are sources of:
+ Protein
+ Fiber
+ Antioxidants
+ B Vitamins
+ Iron
+ Potassium

2. Tasty


There are many types of beans, which means you’ll probably find the one that suits your palate.

GIF yum
Source: DivorcedMoms.com

3. Versatile


With so many kinds, taste profiles and health benefits, beans are super versatile. Here’s a great recipe from OhSheGlows.com for ‘Tasty Vegan Chili with Homemade Sour Cream‘.

red-bean-black-bean-rice-grain-100213179
Source: FreeDigitalPhotos.net, Photo by khunaspix

We also found this terrific book, “The Great Vegan Protein Book: Fill Up the Healthy Way with More than 100 Delicious Protein-Based Vegan Recipes” by talented chef, Celine Steen.

4. Affordable


A bean-rich diet is wallet-friendly. Compared to other protein sources, beans are certainly inexpensive.

5. They Make You Laugh


Beans are high in fiber and contain a triple sugar, stachyose, which means…they give you gas. So, if you get a good laugh from the occasional fart, beans are definitely for you.

Tell Us What You Think About This Awesome Food Below

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Comments

  1. Caroline W.
    Caroline W.

    Thanks!!! That’s great information – I never knew they were so healthy!