Health benefits of Beans
They are low in fat and saturated fat, and contain soluble fibre and a number of phytochemicals, both of which help lower your cholesterol levels.
The folate in beans is also beneficial, since it helps lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that may increase the risk of heart disease when found in high amounts in the blood.
Diabetes
Consuming more legumes may lower your risk for type 2 diabetes.
People who consume more beans are less likely to develop diabetes, perhaps due to the fibre and antioxidants contained in the beans.
Cancer
Men who consume more legumes may be less likely to get prostate cancer.
Eating more beans may help lower your risk for other types of cancer as well, due to the combination of fibre, antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals, and the fact that they are low in fat.
Digestion
Beans contain both soluble and insoluble fibre, so they work double to keep your digestive system running smoothly.
They first slow down digestion, which gives you that full feeling and helps prevent constipation.
Lowers cholesterol
High levels of cholesterol (the bad kind) can stick to the walls of your blood vessels, causing inflammation and plaque buildup.
A healthy cardiovascular system starts with what you eat and beans are one low-fat food.
Weight loss
In addition to belly-filling fibre, beans are loaded with protein, another nutrient that curbs cravings.
The protein and fibre in beans delay stomach emptying, you feel fuller longer and have a delayed return of hunger.
Half cup of cooked black beans for example contains nearly 8 grams of protein and even better, its low-fat nature makes it easier for you to lose weight.
