The power of beans
Here's a quick list of the power of beans:
· They are naturally packed with potent levels of plant protein. · That same cup contains 6-7 grams of valuable fiber. · They are low in fat and cholesterol free. · They are high in potassium, iron and thiamine and low in sodium. · Just a single cup provides about 12 grams of complex carbohydrates or starches.
That makes them an excellent source for quick energy.
Scientists tell us that during the digestive process, certain natural chemicals contained in beans and other legumes are released. They slow down the liver's production of that dangerous LDL cholesterol. Moreover, those same chemicals go rushing though our cardiovascular system, helping to clean out evil LDL which might otherwise clog our arteries.
At least one noted researcher, Dr. James Anderson at the University of Kentucky, is so convinced of the power of beans that he recommends a minimum of one cup of cooked beans daily to help prevent heart disease. He says that even among middle-aged men a diet that includes beans dramatically reduces cholesterol levels by as much as 19%.
A companion study at the University of Minnesota came up with nearly identical findings.
At least two participants with dangerously high cholesterol levels who switched to the bean diet, surprised everyone by decreasing their cholesterol levels from 274 to 190. The same digestive process that releases the cholesterol-fighting chemicals in beans also produces the all-important protease inhibitors, which are basic components of beans. The protease inhibitors seem to be extremely effective in blocking the formation of certain cancers including colon and breast.
All the research is not yet in, but it's possible these protease inhibitors aren't as effective after the cancer has developed. However, some experts think they may decrease out-ofcontrol cell division before it progresses to cancer.
Beans also rank high on the list of nature's other regulators. Not only are they a quick and effective cure for constipation, but by keeping wastes moving along at a regular, healthy pace, they apparently reduce the risks of colon or rectal cancer, intestinal disorder and hemorrhoids.
Beans are also important to diabetics because of their ability to regulate insulin output. Type I diabetes can cut back on their need for insulin by as much as 38% when put on a bean-rich diet. Most of Type II diabetics in the same study were able to stop insulin injections entirely! Worried about gas? An easy solution is to slowly increase your bean consumption to give your body a chance to adapt. Or soak them overnight or flush with boiling water, then let sit for four hours, drain and cook in fresh water.