Thread by @wallacemukoka

Green Beans: Benefits
(Thread)

1. May Help Combat Cancer
Intake of beans, in general, has been linked to a lower risk of breast cancer. This could be attributed to the high fiber content of the beans. A high intake of green beans can also cut the risk of colorectal cancer...

These beans are rich in various bioactive compounds that offer protection against cancer. Their non-digestible carbs are fermented by the gut bacteria, leading to anti-inflammatory action. These beans also have a low glycemic index,

which has also been associated with low cancer risk. Green beans contain saponins, gamma-tocopherol, and phytosterols, which are all compounds with anti-carcinogenic properties Green beans are abundant in chlorophyll, which also has a role to play in cancer prevention.

Chlorophyll binds with certain compounds that may cause cancer, thereby hindering their absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. This can potentially prevent cancer.

2. May Promote Heart Health
Intake of legumes (which greens are a part of) has been linked to a reduced risk...

of coronary heart disease. This can be attributed to the fiber and folate in beans. They also contain vitamin B12, which, in combination, helps reduce plasma homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is a particular amino acid occurring in the body...

the elevated levels of which have been linked to heart disease. The magnesium in green beans may also have a role to play in preserving heart health. The fiber in green beans (and other vegetables included) can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure and...

...even promote blood vessel function. This may invariably promote heart health.

3. May Help Control Diabetes
Studies show that green beans can induce beneficial metabolic effects in individuals with diabetes. Although vegetables, in general, are healthy,,,

...those containing more starch may not be advisable for people with diabetes. Green beans are nonstarchy (they contain less starch). These contain fewer carbs and are an ideal addition to a diabetes diet. Having a cup of beans a day, along with a low-glycemic diet,,,

may help lower blood sugar levels and even cut heart disease risk in people with diabetes.

4. May Promote Gastrointestinal Health
The fiber in the beans plays a major role here. Inadequate fiber intake has often been linked to constipation...

Fiber also boosts the overall gastrointestinal function. Beans, in general, contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, with the insoluble type being the most prominent (75%). This type of fiber moves fast through your digestive system.

This not only promotes a healthy digestive tract but also helps prevent most forms of digestive cancer. Consuming green beans could also help treat the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. This can be attributed to the fiber content in the beans.

5. May Strengthen Bones
Beans, in general, are a good source of calcium. Calcium can cut osteoporosis risk. Green beans are also rich in vitamin K, which is another nutrient essential for strong bones. The only possible downside of beans in this regard is their phytate content...

Phytates are substances in beans that may hinder the absorption of certain nutrients, including calcium.

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