| The Nutritional Value Of
Beans Beans are also rich in isoflavones,
and these isoflavones have shown promise against breast
cancer since they seem to be able to block the ability
of estrogen to speed the growth of tumors. These isoflavones
are common in many varieties of beans.
Black beans are one of the best known, and most versatile,
members of the bean family. Black beans are also excellent
sources of fiber, which has been shown to be valuable
in lowering cholesterol and plaque in the bloodstream.
The high fiber content of black beans and other types
of beans also helps to prevent blood sugar levels from
rising too quickly after a meal, making beans a particularly
good choice for those who suffer from diabetes, insulin
resistance or hypoglycemia.
Beans also offer an excellent source of protein, particularly
when combined into tasty recipes including whole grains
such as wild rice. This low fat high protein combination
makes all kinds of beans excellent choices for a healthy
vegetarian lifestyle.
There are many reasons why beans and legumes should
be part of healthy diet, including their low price,
their great taste and their amazing versatility. Beans
can be used in hundreds of different recipes, so it
is possible to eat beans every day and never have the
same dish twice.
Beans And Fiber
One of the most significant benefits of beans
in the diet, however, is their amazing fiber content.
Few foods are as rich in dietary fiber
as those in the bean and lentil family, and nutrition
experts are increasingly coming to recognize the importance
of getting enough fiber in the diet.
Dietary fiber seems to play a role in regulating blood
pressure, keeping blood sugar levels in check, helping
to prevent heart disease and high cholesterol and even
preventing certain forms of cancer. It is easy to see
why new government guidelines stress the importance
of foods, like beans, which are rich in dietary fiber.
Beans are a particularly good choice for those people
who suffer from digestive problems. Beans are among
the most easily tolerated foods on the market, and even
those with sensitive stomachs and digestive systems
are usually able to do well with most kinds of beans.
Beans are important in other ways as well, notably
for their antioxidant properties. Most varieties of
beans are rich in antioxidant vitamins, thought to play
a vital role in good health, proper nutrition, cancer
fighting and even in fighting the effects of aging.
|
