When you hear “superfood,” you may think avocados, blueberries or kale. But something you need to add to the list is beans, one of the most nourishing foods available. They’re an excellent energy source and can help fight cancer and heart disease.
Learn more about the health benefits of versatile beans:
Protein. When matched with grains, cereals, seeds, nuts, dairy or egg protein, beans are an excellent source of low-fat, low-cost protein. In fact, they’re the richest source of protein available in our food supply.
Fibre. Beans are a rich source of soluble and insoluble fibre. Fibre controls diabetes, obesity and heart disease. It also lowers serum cholesterol and blood sugars and may help to prevent colon cancer.
Vitamin B6. Beans are an excellent source of vitamin B6, which plays a major role in controlling homocysteine levels and reducing atherosclerotic plaques, both factors contributing to cardiovascular disease.
Folate. All beans — but especially cranberry and white pea varieties — are excellent sources of folate, which helps produce healthy babies and protects the adult heart and blood vessels from developing atherosclerosis.
Low in fat and cholesterol free. Beans are an excellent source of protein without the fat normally associated with other protein sources.
Magnesium. One of the most important and healing vitamins in the body, magnesium can help reduce heart disease, asthma and diabetes. It can also reduce fatigued muscle aches and spasms.
Potassium. This major mineral affects heart health and lowers blood pressure by working with other minerals and phytochemicals to make the heart and blood vessels resilient and resistant to disease.
Find more information and great recipes online at ontariobeans.on.ca.