Among the numerous legumes available out there, black beans are some of those that are getting lots of love and attention most especially among health-conscious individuals and vegans. This doesn’t come as a surprise because they are packed with vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and flavonoids – plant pigments with antioxidant properties. Staple ingredients in many Latin American dishes, black beans are superb sources of protein as they have very little fat and no cholesterol.
When shopping for black beans, it’s perfectly fine to opt for dried, frozen or canned selections. You may choose the kind that you find convenient without worrying about the nutritional value as it doesn’t change much from one form to the other. There are many reasons why you should start to consider serving more dishes that contain black beans.
Black Beans Help Prevent Cancer
Flavonoids in black beans act as antioxidants that put a stop to the unfavorable effects of free radicals on healthy cells. It is exactly for this reason why flavonoids may help protect you from cancer. According to health authorities, regular consumption of black beans may prevent the development of certain cancers, with colon cancer on the top of the list.
They Promote Cardiovascular Health
Both soluble and insoluble types of fiber can be found in black beans. The former helps in lowering the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood. Antioxidants present keep fat from oxidizing and clogging up the arteries. Black beans are capable of dealing with chronic inflammation, a condition that can lead to cardiovascular disease most especially in the long run.
Consuming Black Beans is Good for the Gut
Insoluble fiber black beans are packed with promotes regular movement. This indigestible form of carbohydrates also helps sweep poisonous substances and other impurities out of your gut. It’s something that contributes to a healthy digestive system because it encourages the growth and multiplication of good bacteria in the colon to neutralize the bad ones.
Black Beans Boost the Immune System
Folate, one of the B-group of vitamins, is abundantly present in black beans. This nutrient is vital for the proper functioning of the immune system. Eating black beans helps reduce your chances of ending up with colds, cough, flu and infections. Folate in these super legumes is also necessary for the proper spinal cord development of a growing fetus.
They Help Build and Repair Muscles
Black beans are loaded with amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. This is the reason why they are staples in the diets of vegetarians. Protein is necessary for muscle building, repair and maintenance. What’s so good about black beans is, unlike other protein sources like meat, they contain very little amounts of fat and absolutely no cholesterol.
Black Beans Promote Weight Loss
Weight-watchers should include black beans in their diet as they are highly nutritious and very low in fat. The kind of carbohydrates they supply is metabolized slowly, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels that leave you feeling very hungry.
