Green beans – also known as string beans or snap beans – are rich in Vitamin C and beta-carotene, an antioxidant that gives fruits and vegetables their colour. The vegetable helps fight inflammation and is a good source of folate and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. Green beans also are a good source of protein and fibre, which helps lower cholesterol.
That’s not all. “Green beans are a good source of Vitamin K and a decent amount of calcium. These nutrients are important for maintaining strong, healthy bones and reducing risk of bone fractures,” says holistic health writer Kristen Jakobitz.
Adequate Vitamin K consumption improves bone health by modifying bone matrix proteins, improving calcium absorption, and reducing urinary excretion of calcium. One cup of green beans provides 14.4 micrograms of Vitamin K, or almost 20% of the daily requirement, and 4% of a person’s daily need for calcium, says an article in Medical News Today.
Green beans also contain a high amount of chlorophyll. This may block the carcinogenic effects of heterocyclic amines that are generated when grilling meats at a high temperature. Individuals who prefer their grilled foods charred should pair them with green vegetables to decrease the risk. (MNT)