Green beans are important part of many dishes. It can be cooked in a variety of ways from steaming to adding it to vegetable dishes. However, despite its name, it is not considered a bean for the various health benefits it contains. They are more nutritionally comparable to pod vegetables like okra or peas.
Based from a study by the MNT Knowledge Center, the nutritional breakdown of green peas can attest to its health benefits. It can help in preventing cancer, aids in fertility enhancement and combat depression. Furthermore, it can help in promoting bone health.
Based on a report by the USDA National Nutrient Database, approximately one cup of green beans contain 31 calories, no fat, 7 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams of fiber, sugar and proteins. Furthermore, it was revealed that it contains rich sources of Vitamin C, Vitamin A and Vitamin K. It also contains thiamin, riboflavin, iron, folate, potassium and even magnesium. Consumption of vegetables and plant foods like green beans can pose many health benefits for the body such as decreased risk of obesity, diabetes, heart diseases and other illnesses that contribute to mortality rates.
One health benefit of green beans is that it can lower cancer risk. It contains high amounts of chlorophyll that can block the carcinogenic effects of heterocyclic amines that come from grilled meat which was cooked at high temperatures. So, when eating grilled meat and other protein-rich foods, be sure to pair them up with green vegetables like green beans.
Additionally, studies say that for women in their reproductive age should consume more iron-rich plants like spinach, beans, green beans and green-leafy vegetables. This will help promote fertility as based from a study by the Harvard Medical School's Health Publication. Also, folic acid intake is important for pregnant women to protect the infant from neural tube defects and promote brain development.
Green beans are rich in folic acid as it provides 10% of daily folic acid needs. Folic acid is important it fighting depression. Having adequate intake of folate every day prevent an excess production of homocysteine in the body. Homocysteine prevents the proper blood flow to the brain. Also, it interferes with the normal production of hormones like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine that are responsible in regulating mood, sleep and appetite. Lastly, bone health is promoted through consuming green beans.
Low Vitamin K intake is linked to higher risk for bone fracture. Green beans are rich in Vitamin K and promote good bone health. It improves bone health through acting as a converter of bone matrix proteins, promoting calcium absorption and decreasing urinary excretion of calcium.
