We are always watching what we eat but this simple ingredient my change the way you cook. I'm talking about the lowly bean, yes I said "bean".
Health Benefits
1. Lower Risk of Heart Disease
Studies have shown that people who eat more legumes have a lower risk of heart disease. The phytochemicals found in beans might be partially to thank, since they protect against it.
2. Fight Cancer
Beans contain a wide range of cancer-fighting plant chemicals, specifically, isoflavones and phytosterols which are associated with reduced cancer risk.
3. Beans Can Lower Cholesterol
Beans provide the body with soluble fiber, which plays an important role in controlling blood cholesterol levels. Studies find that about 10 grams of soluble fiber a day—the amount in 1/2 to 1 1/2 cups of navy beans—reduces LDL cholesterol by about 10 percent. Beans also contain saponins and phytosterols, which help lower cholesterol.
4. Bean May Help You Loose Weight
A serving of beans will help you feel full more quickly, because the rich fiber content fills your stomach and causes a slower rise in blood sugar. That should stave off hunger longer and give you a steady supply of energy.
5. Beans Can Help Manage Diabetes
Beans are a diabetes sufferer's super-food! The balance of complex carbohydrates and protein provides a slow, steady source of glucose instead of the sudden surge that can occur after eating simple carbohydrates.
Now I'm not just suggesting you eat more beans, which come to think of it is a good idea, but you can add beans to many recipes that your family will never know they are there. The addition will leave you feeling more satisfied when eating the dish and stick with you longer after the meal.
I have 3 great places we always add beans:
One is in Lasagna, now I know it doesn't sound that appetizing but, believe me it's actually better. ...Recipe.
The second dish I love to add beans to is brownies, they are decadently chocolate and delicious. With the added fiber you won't be tempted to eat the whole pan in one sitting, always good when you are watching your weight. ...Recipe.
The third place is in a cream filling that I make using ricotta cheese and beans. This filling is perfect for stuffed French Toast, Crapes for dessert, it's even good enough to ice a cake. ...Recipe.
Now I'm sure you can come up with some other places that you can sneak in beans. Your family will never know and you will be thinner for it.
Enjoy!
Tamara
Health Benefits
1. Lower Risk of Heart Disease
Studies have shown that people who eat more legumes have a lower risk of heart disease. The phytochemicals found in beans might be partially to thank, since they protect against it.
2. Fight Cancer
Beans contain a wide range of cancer-fighting plant chemicals, specifically, isoflavones and phytosterols which are associated with reduced cancer risk.
3. Beans Can Lower Cholesterol
Beans provide the body with soluble fiber, which plays an important role in controlling blood cholesterol levels. Studies find that about 10 grams of soluble fiber a day—the amount in 1/2 to 1 1/2 cups of navy beans—reduces LDL cholesterol by about 10 percent. Beans also contain saponins and phytosterols, which help lower cholesterol.
4. Bean May Help You Loose Weight
A serving of beans will help you feel full more quickly, because the rich fiber content fills your stomach and causes a slower rise in blood sugar. That should stave off hunger longer and give you a steady supply of energy.
5. Beans Can Help Manage Diabetes
Beans are a diabetes sufferer's super-food! The balance of complex carbohydrates and protein provides a slow, steady source of glucose instead of the sudden surge that can occur after eating simple carbohydrates.
Now I'm not just suggesting you eat more beans, which come to think of it is a good idea, but you can add beans to many recipes that your family will never know they are there. The addition will leave you feeling more satisfied when eating the dish and stick with you longer after the meal.
I have 3 great places we always add beans:
One is in Lasagna, now I know it doesn't sound that appetizing but, believe me it's actually better. ...Recipe.
The second dish I love to add beans to is brownies, they are decadently chocolate and delicious. With the added fiber you won't be tempted to eat the whole pan in one sitting, always good when you are watching your weight. ...Recipe.
The third place is in a cream filling that I make using ricotta cheese and beans. This filling is perfect for stuffed French Toast, Crapes for dessert, it's even good enough to ice a cake. ...Recipe.
Now I'm sure you can come up with some other places that you can sneak in beans. Your family will never know and you will be thinner for it.
Enjoy!
Tamara
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