Green beans offer surprising health advantages, potentially aiding cancer prevention, boosting immunity, supporting pregnancy, and enhancing heart & bone health due to their nutritional values.
Okay, so you’re probably wondering what all the buzz is about green beans, right? They seem simple, but trust us, these little guys pack a serious punch. We’re going to explore the amazing health benefits of green beans and why you should be adding them to your plate ASAP.
- Green Beans Benefits
- Helps Fight Cancer
- Boosts Immunity and Supports Pregnancy
- Contributes to Treating Depression
- Strengthens Bones
- Enhances Heart Health
- The Nutritional Value of Green Beans
- Hazards and Risks
- Key takeaways
- FAQ, Myth & Facts
Green Beans Benefits
Green beans, also known as string beans, are seriously packed with important benefits and they include:
Green beans contain a high percentage of chlorophyll. Um, you remember that stuff from science class, right? Well, chlorophyll might block the carcinogenic effects of heterocyclic amines. These are produced when grilling meats at high temperatures.
That said, if you’re choosing between a well-done steak and some green beans, opting for the beans to balance things out could actually counteract the negative effects of those harmful compounds found in charred meats.
Women, especially during childbearing years, need adequate amounts of iron from nutrient-rich foods such as spinach, legumes, beets, grains and green beans. They all help improve iron levels.
Also, getting vitamin C from sources like bell peppers, strawberries, and tomatoes alongside iron-rich foods increases iron absorption. Plus, green beans are a great source of folic acid, which is essential for pregnant women for a healthy pregnancy and fetal development.
Therefore, green beans are important for increasing immunity and supporting pregnancy and fetal development.
In general, getting enough folic acid helps fight depression because folic acid intake prevents the buildup of homocysteine in the body.
High levels of homocysteine can hinder blood and nutrient flow to the brain. This can impair the production of feel-good hormones in the body that help regulate mood, appetite, and sleep.
We’ve noticed that a lot of folks are looking for natural ways to manage their mood and mental well-being. While green beans can be a supportive addition to your diet, it’s also essential to focus on getting enough omega-3 fatty acids, as these contribute significantly to brain function and mental wellness. It might be good to incorporate foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts in your meal plan.
Because they contain a good amount of vitamin K, green beans contribute to reducing the risk of bone fractures.
To that end, it is important to get enough of it, and from the following:
- Improve bone health and strengthen them.
- Improve calcium absorption in the body.
- Reduce the amount of calcium that exits the body through urine.
Therefore, eating green beans is great, as it provides the body with a good amount of vitamin K.
Another benefit of green beans is that they enhance heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. This is due to several factors, including:
- They contain a good percentage of soluble fiber that helps lower bad cholesterol levels in the blood.
- Green beans contain cholesterol-lowering compounds.
- They’re low in sodium, and that has a positive impact on heart health.
The Nutritional Value of Green Beans
The benefits of green beans come from their high nutritional value. For instance, every 100 grams of green beans contain the following nutritional values:
| Nutrient | Nutritional Value |
| Calories | 170 calories |
| Protein | 7.14 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28.57 grams |
| Fiber | 5.4 grams |
| Calcium | 61 milligrams |
| Iron | 2.68 milligrams |
| Potassium | 296 milligrams |
| Sodium | 286 milligrams |
| Vitamin C | 3 milligrams |
Hazards and Risks
The benefits of green beans do not mean that there are no harms or risks from them, as large amounts of them may harm some people.
The most prominent harms of green beans when consumed in large quantities include the following:
- They may cause blood clots, as green beans are a good source of vitamin K, which plays a role in increasing blood clots. Therefore, caution should be exercised, especially by those who are taking blood-thinning medications.
- They may cause bloating for the digestive system and some problems in the colon if large amounts of them are consumed. So, it’s best to consume a moderate amount of them.
- They might limit the absorption of some minerals and vitamins. Therefore, it is preferable to avoid overdoing it when eating green beans.
Key takeaways
- Green beans are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health.
- They can aid in managing cholesterol levels and supporting heart health.
- Moderation is key; excessive consumption might lead to digestive discomfort in some individuals.
FAQ, Myth & Facts
Are green beans really that good for you?
Yep, they’re little powerhouses of nutrients. Think of them as your body’s cheerleaders, quietly boosting your health from the sidelines. They won’t solve all your problems, but they’re a solid, healthy addition to a balanced diet.
Can eating too many green beans be harmful?
While it’s rare to eat too many, very large quantities could cause digestive issues for some. It’s kinda like anything else—too much of a good thing can sometimes cause a bit of trouble.
Are canned green beans as healthy as fresh ones?
Fresh is best, but canned ones still offer benefits. We’ve all been there, staring into a pantry wondering what to whip up. Canned green beans are convenient, but keep an eye on the sodium content. Rinsing them can help reduce the saltiness.
Are green beans a good source of protein?
They contain some protein, but they’re not a primary source. Pair them with other protein-rich foods for a complete meal. Kinda like having a supporting actor—they play their part well but need a lead to shine.
I started adding green beans to my diet a few months ago and have noticed a real difference in my digestion. They’re easy to prepare and add a nice crunch to my meals.
As a nutritionist, I always recommend green beans to my clients. They’re a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be incorporated into various dishes.
I was skeptical about the health benefits of green beans until I did some research. Now, I make sure to include them in my weekly meal plan. They’re a simple and affordable way to boost my nutrient intake.
So, are green beans a superfood miracle? Probably not. But are they a worthwhile addition to your diet? Absolutely. They’re like that reliable friend you can always count on, quietly supporting your well-being without any fuss. We’re definitely making them a regular feature on our plates, and maybe you should too!
