Heart health: Beans are naturally low in fat and contain no saturated fat(s), trans fats or cholesterol. Studies show a diet that includes beans may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Cancer-reducing agents: Beans such as the small red bean have an abundance of antioxidants and phytochemicals (natural plant chemicals), which have been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers such as colon cancer.
Blood sugar management: Beans contain complex carbohydrates the body digests slowly. This makes them a good choice for diabetics to help keep tight control over their blood sugar levels.
Weight control: Beans are low in fat and an excellent source of fiber and protein. Fiber and protein will help the body feel full faster and longer. Protein, along with exercise, will help build lean muscle.
Pregnancy and healthy babies: Folate (the natural form of the B vitamin folic acid) is one of the many vitamins found in beans. Folic acid has been shown to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in newborns significantly. Pregnant women and women of child-bearing age should get the daily recommendation of 400 micrograms of folate (folic acid). Eating a diet rich in beans will contribute to this goal.
Food allergies and intolerances: For people with food allergies and intolerances, beans provide a great source of nutrition. Individuals who have celiac disease are unable to consume gluten, a protein found in grain products. They can supplement their diet with beans to get fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals that might otherwise be missing because they aren’t able to eat grain foods.