Beans are one of nature’s best. They are as great a source of protein as meat, they are more slowly digested so they stave off the hungries, and they provide phytochemicals—those magical plant compounds that can help prevent cancer by preventing free-radicals from causing cell damage. Beans are also low in sugar so they keep insulin levels from spiking and falling.
Beans come in many colors, flavors, and textures (See: http://bit.ly/33PxQt). Regardless of the shape or size, beans share some important nutritional benefits—beans are naturally low in fat; they provide vital nutrients (including potassium, folic acid, iron, calcium); and they contain no fat or cholesterol.
Diets rich in beans have been related to lower blood pressure, less heart disease, cancer, and risk of stroke.
Beans do have one downside: flatulence-producing enzymes. One tip is to use dry beans, do a quick soak, and thoroughly rinse the water from that first soak before cooking the beans. This lessens the indigestible complex sugars that cause the gas.
Quick Soak
Rinse beans in cold water. Place in a large pot and cover beans with about 3 inches of cold water. Heat to boiling for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let beans sit for one hour before draining completely and returning to the pot with fresh water for cooking.
For more taste and less gas, it is best to cook the beans until they can be mashed easily with a fork. Here is a link with basic cooking instructions: http://bit.ly/Un3qsXIt
You can make a delicious black bean soup with garlic, onions, celery, red bell pepper (seasonings can include cumin, cayenne, and lemon juice), or traditional slow-cooked Boston Baked Beans. For a more exotic taste, try curry or masala (combination of spices used in South Asian cusines).
This week, whatever other good choices you make, make beans a dietary option. You have to appreciate how easily what you eat can be both delicious and nutritious. Now that is food for thought!
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Rev. Debra Basham Voice: (269) 921-2217 Email: debra@scs-matters.com https://scs-matters.com http://ImagineHealing.info http://SurgicalSupport.infoSmall Changes … Infinite Results™“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” ~Mother TeresaTips from 5 April 2010 to 6 August 2012 are here: Archived Tips |