Benefits Of Kidney Beans That You Need to Know

A legume originated from Central America and Mexico; Kidney beans are one of the most underappreciated foods in the world. These beans are not only a major source of protein but also taste yummy when boiled or cooked. In Central America and Mexico, kidney beans are used in a variety of traditional dishes. Their popularity is also increasing in the rest of the world as these beans are ideal to consume in any kind of diet that you are following. Having several advantages for the human body, kidney beans can also sometimes be harmful when not cooked properly. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of kidney beans. The article will also discuss how you can incorporate these beans into your everyday diet to lead a healthier life.

Kidney Beans Are An Exceptional Protein Source

One of the most important benefits of kidney beans is their high protein content. These beans are probably the most appropriate source of protein for people who consume a plant-based diet. A cup of kidney beans contains around 16 grams of proteins which means it can easily meet the body’s requirements. The amino acids present in proteins are the building blocks of muscles. Kidney beans, by providing the right amount of proteins, make sure that the body never runs out of amino acids. The beans also have a high fiber, iron, and folate content which means that an individual will tend to consume less fat while eating kidney beans.

Kidney Beans For Colon Health

Kidney beans, being high in fiber, are one of the best foods for the human digestive system. The dietary fiber present in kidney beans helps to prevent constipation. In addition to that, research shows that people who consume kidney beans are less likely to develop colon cancer as compared to people who don’t include kidney beans in their diet. This is because the non-digestible fiber present in kidney beans regulates cell growth in the digestive colon. The cell growth in the colon, in turn, helps to prevent cancer. This reason seems to be enough to include at least a small portion of kidney beans in your everyday diet.

Best Food For A Controlled Blood Sugar

With their low glycemic index, kidney beans are very less likely to spike the blood glucose level. This makes them safe to consume for people who are struggling with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Not only this, but kidney beans also have the capability to minimize the effects of foods that actually lead to a rise in blood sugar levels. This is the reason why diabetics are recommended to eat rice with kidney beans or other kinds of beans. Consuming kidney beans with rice means that the rice will digest at a slower rate, keeping the blood glucose in check.

Kidney Beans For Blood Pressure

Hypertension can be controlled effectively with the help of kidney beans. The high potassium content and low sodium content of kidney beans make this food best for people who are suffering from high blood pressure. The 742 milligrams of potassium in one cup of kidney beans along with the folate, leads to relaxation of blood vessels and ultimately, a normal blood flow. It is recommended to eat 3 servings of kidney beans per week, combined with other foods. The best part about kidney beans is that you can combine them with any type of food. You can have a kidney bean salad, or you can have kidney beans as a side with your regular meals.

Benefits For Weight Loss

This benefit of kidney beans is probably the most appealing for the majority of us. Well, kidney beans ACTUALLY WORK when you’re trying to lose weight, and this can be attributed to the nutritional contents of these beans. The high protein and fiber content helps you to feel full sooner, hence helping to avoid overeating. While you’re avoiding carbohydrates to lose weight, the fiber in kidney beans will be your best resort. These beans will also help you to reduce your meal portions which is the key to losing weight.

How To Include Kidney Beans Into Your Diet

Having discussed the benefits of kidney beans, it is important to also mention some ways you can incorporate the beans into your diet.

Kidney Bean Curry

By combining kidney beans with onions and some spices, you can prepare a curry. This curry is best consumed with rice at lunch or dinner.

Kidney Bean Salad

You can also have kidney beans in the form of a salad. Combine boiled kidney beans with your favorite vegetables and enjoy them as a snack or meal.

Kidney Beans On Their Own

You can also have boiled kidney beans on their own without combining them with anything. Just sprinkle some seasoning and you’re good to go.