An international group of scientists from the USA and Canada found that beans and other legumes help reduce the risk of heart and vascular diseases, as well as maintain a slim figure thanks to the fiber in their composition. The study results were published in Nutrition Journal.
Scientists analyzed the biochemical composition and beneficial properties of beans, peas, chickpeas and lentils. The study examined the properties of both fresh foods and dried, frozen and canned foods. It turned out that such plant foods can effectively protect the body from a number of serious diseases.
In particular, it was found that among active consumers of legumes, the risk of heart disease and blood vessels was reduced by 24%, the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) by 31%, the risk of stroke by 20%, diabetes by 23%, and cancer. by 6%.
The researchers explained that legumes are rich in potassium, an element that maintains the elasticity of blood vessel walls. The vessels must be flexible in order to calmly withstand blood pressure and distribute blood throughout the body at the required speed.
The fiber (healthy dietary fiber) and protein in legumes also help maintain a feeling of fullness, thereby helping to maintain a healthy weight. In addition, dietary fiber maintains a normal gastrointestinal tract and additionally protects against cardiovascular pathologies.
