In addition to being processed into food and drinks, the health benefits of green beans are diverse. Thanks to the various nutrients contained in them, green beans can maintain body weight and even reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Green beans (Vigna radiata) are a type of bean that originates from India. Even so, this type of bean has been found in most countries in the world, one of which is Indonesia. In Indonesia, green beans are often processed into food and drinks, such as green bean porridge and green bean ice. In addition to its delicious taste, green beans can also provide health benefits because they contain various nutrients that are good for the body.
Nutritional Content of Green Beans
In 100 grams of green beans there are 31 calories and various nutrients as follows:
- 23 grams of protein.
- 1.5 grams of fat.
- 57 grams of carbohydrates.
- 7.5 grams of fiber.
- 223 milligrams of calcium.
- 319 milligrams of phosphorus.
- 7.5 milligrams of iron.
- 42 milligrams of sodium.
- 816 milligrams of potassium.
Not only that, green beans are also known to contain other vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B, vitamin C, folate, and magnesium.
Benefits of Green Beans for Body Health
There are various health benefits of green beans that can be obtained and it would be a shame to miss them, including:
- Maintaining weight
One of the benefits of green beans for the body is maintaining weight. The fiber content in green beans can provide a longer satiety effect so that you are able to control your appetite. That way, you will not overeat and your weight will be maintained. - Smooth digestion
The fiber content in green beans is also useful for smooth digestion. This benefit is also supported by the high starch content in green beans. Fiber and starch are contents that can increase the growth of good bacteria in the intestines. The normal amount of good bacteria in the intestines can certainly smooth digestion and reduce your risk of constipation. - Increase body stamina
Green beans can also be a source of energy because they contain complex carbohydrates. This type of carbohydrate will be processed into an energy supply for the body, making you more energetic in carrying out daily activities. - Controlling blood pressure
The antioxidants contained in green beans are known to inhibit the performance of the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). This enzyme produced by the body can increase blood pressure. By inhibiting the performance of this enzyme, blood pressure in the body will be controlled and you can avoid high blood pressure. - Controlling blood sugar
Green beans are rich in polyphenols that can control blood sugar levels. The function of polyphenols themselves is to stimulate the insulin hormone to work effectively in converting glucose into energy and reducing insulin resistance. This will certainly maintain normal blood sugar levels. Therefore, consuming green beans regularly can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. - Preventing anemia
Another benefit of green beans is preventing anemia. This benefit is obtained from the various mineral contents in green beans, such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium. These minerals are needed by the body to produce red blood cells and prevent anemia. - Lowering cholesterol levels
A study shows that the antioxidant content in green beans can lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels in laboratory animals. Thanks to this study, green beans are also said to help lower cholesterol levels naturally in humans. - Reduces the risk of osteoporosis
The efficacy of green beans in preventing osteoporosis comes from its fairly high magnesium content. A study explains that consuming magnesium regularly can increase bone mineral density. That way, bone health will be maintained and the risk of osteoporosis can be reduced. - Healthy fetus and reduce the risk of childbirth complications
For pregnant women, consuming green beans regularly can help meet the folate needs needed during pregnancy. Folate itself is a very important nutrient so that the fetus can grow and develop healthily. Not only that, folate in green beans also has properties in reducing the risk of childbirth complications which are certainly dangerous for the mother and baby. - Counteracting free radicals
Another equally important benefit of green beans is counteracting free radicals that cause damage to body tissues. This benefit can be felt thanks to the high antioxidant content in green beans. By consuming foods high in antioxidants, your body will not be susceptible to chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
The health benefits of green beans are undeniable. Therefore, you can start including green beans in your daily diet. However, limit the amount of sugar added to it. If you want to get the benefits of green beans but are still hesitant because you have certain health conditions, you should consult a doctor before consuming them.
