Green beans may be low in calories, but they are packed with essential nutrients that offer numerous health advantages. These legumes are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, flavonols, quercetin, and kaempferol, which combat free radicals, reduce cell damage, and potentially lower the risk of certain health conditions.
Improve Heart Health:
The fiber content in green beans, especially soluble fiber, can contribute to better heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol levels, commonly known as “bad cholesterol.”
Protect Gut Health:
The fiber in green beans promotes a healthy and well-functioning digestive system. Moreover, since green beans are low in FODMAPs, they can be beneficial for individuals with digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome, minimizing symptoms like gas, bloating, and discomfort.
Aid in a Healthy Pregnancy:
Green beans are a good source of folate, a B vitamin crucial for the growth and development of unborn babies. Adequate folate intake reduces the risk of certain birth defects, making it essential for pregnant and nursing women.
Protect Bone Health:
Thanks to their high vitamin K and decent calcium content, green beans contribute to maintaining strong and healthy bones, reducing the risk of fractures.
Reduce Depression Symptoms:
Sufficient folate intake is also vital for reducing depression symptoms. It helps lower homocysteine levels, which, when too high, can interfere with the production of mood-regulating hormones like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
May Help with Anemia:
Green beans contain plant-based iron, a crucial component of red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Including green beans in your diet can help prevent anemia and its associated symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and lightheadedness.
May Help Prevent Cancer:
Green beans contain chlorophyll, which has shown promise in slowing cancer tumor growth and reducing the risk of cancer. Though most studies have been conducted on animals, more research is needed to confirm these anti-cancer benefits in humans.
Incorporating green beans into your diet can provide you with these valuable health benefits, contributing to your overall well-being and vitality.