It is important to eat a wide variety of plant foods in order to get all of the amino acids that your body requires to form complete proteins. Keep reading to find out how to maximize you legume intake, making your body strong and your life healthy.
All around the world, legumes are considered one of the best ways to get the soluble fiber that your body needs to maintain health. Legumes are high in quality protein and low in fat, which is a great combination.
It is true that beans have a reputation for being a little gassy; however, there are ways to get around that. So, do not let the explosive nature of legumes keep you away from the abundant nutrition.
The soluble fiber in legumes may help reduce LDL cholesterol
Beans contain soluble fiber, which effectively helps to reduce the levels of harmful LDL cholesterol levels in the blood, reducing the risk for the development of heart disease. In addition, soluble fiber slows down the absorption of carbohydrates, fending off the unwanted valleys and peaks in the levels of blood glucose.
This is especially important for individuals afflicted with diabetes. Not only are legumes a great source of soluble fiber, but insoluble fiber as well, which helps to protect against and relieve constipation or other problems in the digestive system.
Since legumes are so high in fiber, that means that they will fill you up faster and maintain the feeling of fullness for longer in between meals. One thing that makes legumes such an effective dieting food is the way they prevent excessive snacking.
Legumes also contain many important nutrients
In addition, legumes are rich in copper, magnesium, folic acid and copper. All four of these nutrients are necessary for maintaining a healthy, well balanced diet. Peas and dried beans are excellent sources for iron, which is ideal for individuals who have opted to omit meat from their diets all together.
Legumes, such as dried beans, are available for purchase all year long. Even better, legumes are usually inexpensive and can be found at just about any grocery store with well-stocked shelves.
For some of the more exotic legume varieties, like yellow split peas, flageolets, azuki beans or cranberry beans, you may need to stop by your local health food store.
Another great thing about legumes is that as long as you store them correctly, dried peas and beans can last for at least a year or longer. Store your legumes in their original unopened bag.
Once the bag has been opened, the legumes need to be stored in a dry glass jar with a secured lid and placed in a dark, cool spot. In addition, you can also find a number of delicious beans, peas and other various legumes available for purchase either canned or cooked.
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