Beans and Legumes

What are beans and legumes?

Beans and legumes are seeds and are a great source of nutrients, B vitamins, fiber and as a source of protein.

Health benefits of beans and legumes
Nutrient dense food, rich in:


Protein 
Fiber
Vitamin B9
Manganese
Copper 
Iron
Vitamin B1
Vitamin K
Vitamin E
Niacin
Magnesium
Vitamin B2

Here are the 9 best beans and legumes that are good for you:

Chickpeas or garbanzo beans
Lentils
Peas
Kidney Beans
Black Beans
Soybeans
Pinto Beans
Navy Beans
Peanuts

Each of the beans and legumes have health benefits that vary with the type of legume.  One cup per day may provide the following are the benefits:

Heart health and lowering blood pressure

Increases levels of HDL and lowers LDL. High fiber intake has also been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. May reduce high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke risk.

Weight loss and High fiber supports weight management by boosting fullness, delaying the return of hunger, 

Blood sugar control

Helping to regulate and/or lower blood sugar and insulin levels.  High levels of 

Digestive health

High in fiber which helps reduce constipation, decreases inflammation, and improves the body’s immune function. Promotes healthily gut bacteria.

Cancer

Soybeans contain antioxidants that may help to protect human cells from the damaging effects of oxygen and inhibiting cancer cell growth. Shown to lower breast, reproductive, lung and colon cancers

Bone strength

Soybeans contain vitamin K and C can improve bone strength by aiding in the absorption of calcium helping 

Further reading

American Diabetes Association

Legumes: Good or Bad

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