Beans Fact

Beans are a staple food all around the world. They are classified as legumes and are an affordable source of protein, fiber, iron, and vitamins that offer many health benefits. There are several types of beans, including lima beans, black beans, black-eyed peas, soybeans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, red beans, etc. These beans are available as dry, canned, or frozen. 

Recently, there has been the question of what class/group of food beans belong. Some say it is a protein while others argue that it is a carbohydrate. Whatever group you fall into, knowing its health benefits is necessary, and you're not too far from the truth.

Health benefits of beans 

1. Source of Potassium

Why do I need potassium? You may be asking. For starters, potassium helps to get rid of extra sodium from your body through your urine because too much sodium can cause high blood pressure. Also, it helps to relax the walls of your blood vessels. When they are too tense, it can also lead to high blood pressure. 

Your muscles and nerves also need enough potassium for them to work well.

2. Good Source of Folate

Folate is a nutrient needed in the production of red blood cells. It also helps to prevent defects in a foetus during pregnancy.

3. Antioxidants

Beans are rich in a type of antioxidant named polyphenols.

Antioxidants help to combat the effects of free radicals that the body produces during metabolism and other processes. 

The actions of free radicals result in various diseases. Since antioxidants help the body remove free radicals, foods such as beans can protect the body from diseases like cancer. For example, the chemical in black beans prevents cancerous cells from multiplying. Beans also help to prevent sagging skin and other aging symptoms. 

4. Diabetes-Friendly

Beans are high in fiber, and this can help lower blood glucose. Consuming foods with a high fiber content, like beans, reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. Also, because of the low-glycemic-index rating (this means the body absorbs energy from them slowly) of beans, people with diabetes (especially type 2) would benefit from it because it helps to manage their insulin levels and reduce blood sugar.