Comprehension: Eat Green Beans

It is no longer news that eating fresh, organically grown vegetables and fruits, whole grains and legumesA legume is any plant that bears its fruit inside a pod. Legume is an umbrella term that includes beans and pulses. Thus, all beans are considered a legumes, but not... More results in lower risks of many types of cancers and chronic diseases, and provides healthy ageing and higher energyEnergy is the ability to do work. Energy exists in several forms such as heat, kinetic or mechanical energy, light, potential energy, and electrical energy. Units of Energy: The SI unit... More levels.

                   Epidemiological studies (a type of study in which the diet consumed is compared to the development of diseases in an individual over a period of years or decades) show that people who consume these foods have a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), arthritis and cancer than those whose diets emphasize processed, refined unwholesome foods.

                   According to scientists, consuming specifically high amounts of fruits and vegetables is associated with lower risks of CVD, asthma, chronic bronchitis and arthritis. Also, the consumption of whole grains and soy foods offers protection against CVD and cancer. Research has also shown healthy whole foods consumption is directly connected to healthy eyes.

                   According to studies, eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains rich in antioxidants translates into a lower incidence of cataracts – a clouding of the eye’s lens that impairs vision and is found in almost half of the population over age 75.

                   Green beans is one of such foods. One of the best facts about green beans is that it provides many health benefits. Green beans contain high amounts of the essential vitamins A, C and K, fibre, folic acid and potassium. Vitamins A and C are both antioxidants that work together to reduce free radicals in the body. The high fibre content makes green beans a great source to help control blood sugar levels and keep your digestive system in good working order. Folic acid is necessary for the production and maintenance of new cells and is also important to help prevent anaemiaAnaemia is when the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin. Red blood cells and haemoglobin (the molecule in red blood cells that makes them red) are... More during pregnancy.

                   The variety of vitamins and nutrients in green beans help prevent many health problems. Adding more green beans to your diet can help prevent hardening of the arteries which leads to heart attacks and strokes. The high level of potassium helps lower blood pressure. According to medical experts, the high fibre content may help prevent colon cancer by binding to cancer-causing toxins and removing them from the body before they can harden the colon cells. In addition, green beans can help reduce inflammation from diseases such as asthma, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. If you have health problems related to your kidneys or gallbladder you should avoid eating green beans. If not, start eating more green beans every week.

(Vanguard, Thursday, May 27, 2010 page 20)