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The Beans:
The nutrient profile of dried beans
is impeccable. They rate as the richest source of vegetable protein,
a very high source of both insoluble and soluble dietary fibre.
Soluble fibre acts as a scrub brush, cleaning the digestive system.
Also a fabulous source of non-sweet complex carbohydrate, making
them a marvelous source of energy. High fibre in the diet can help
reduce blood cholesterol levels, regulate digestion and slow the
rise of blood glucose that normally follows meals. They supply impressive
amounts of the B-vitamins (niacin, riboflavin, thiamine and folic
acid), calcium, iron, phosphorous, potassium and zinc.
In addition, beans contain no cholesterol
or gluten and very little sodium and fat. They are definitely a
boon when it comes to healthy eating and maintaining a healthy weight.
As well with all those positive qualities, they are important for
special diets such as gluten-free, diabetic, low-salt, low-fat,
low-calorie, low-cholesterol, high fibre and high iron diets.
Foods with high levels of dietary fibre
and low fat are also associated with the reduced risk of colon cancer,
diabetes and coronary heart disease. Consuming legumes (beans),
which contain phytoestrogens, is essential for menopausal women
and also protects against breast and prostate cancers, bone loss
(Osteoporosis) and reduces the risk of strokes.
As you can see beans have many positive
nutritional qualities that health professionals recommend for healthy
dietary choices!
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