5 Amazing Health Benefits of Green Beans
Green beans boost heart health with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
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Health Benefits of Green Beans: Green beans, a popular side dish in many American homes, are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. These legumes, also known as snap beans or string beans, are a good source of protein, vitamins C and A, and minerals like calcium. They’re a beloved side dish at family potlucks, holiday meals, and nightly dinners.
Consuming green beans may offer several health benefits, including improved heart health. Green beans contain antioxidants such as vitamin C, flavonols, quercetin, and kaemferol, which help fight free radicals in the body and may reduce the risk of certain health conditions. Despite their name, they aren't always green. Green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) can be yellow or purple.
Green beans are native to the Americas but are now grown globally and are available year-round. However, their peak season is between May and October, when they are often found at local farmer's markets.
Whether blanched, sautéed, or straight from the can, green beans are a nutritious and versatile addition to your diet.
5 Health Benefits of Green Beans
Following are some of the top health benefits of green beans.
1. Aid in Digestion: Green beans, a crunchy and versatile vegetable, offer a powerhouse of health benefits. One of the key benefits of green beans is their high fiber content. This nutrient is essential for healthy digestion. Fiber helps regulate digestion, prevents constipation, and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
2. Promote Bone Health: Green beans are an excellent source of vitamin K, a crucial nutrient for bone health often overshadowed by calcium. Studies indicate inadequate vitamin K intake harms bone health.
3. Boost Immune System: Green beans also contain a high amount of vitamin C, vital for a robust immune system. While not a cure for colds, consuming nutrient-rich foods like green beans can support the immune system's efficiency in fighting off illness.
4. Improve Heart Health: Green beans contain folate and potassium, two nutrients that may positively impact heart health. High cholesterol and blood pressure are two risk factors for heart disease, and they’re also very common among adults in the U.S. These nutrients, combined with a healthy lifestyle, can help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
5. Help with Anemia: Green beans provide a decent source of plant-based iron, an essential mineral for red blood cell production and oxygen transport. Consuming adequate iron helps prevent anemia, a condition characterized by fatigue, weakness, and lightheadedness.
(Disclaimer: Parts of this article were generated by AI and published after the content was editorially modified and verified by a human based on their own judgement and expertise. The Quint does not publish AI-generated content without direct human involvement and oversight).